Bison Ecology In The Northern Plains And A Reconstruction Of Bison Patterns For The North Dakota Region

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Abstract
In this paper two models of bison ecology for the Northern Plains are critically appraised for potential use in the North Dakota region. On the basis of ecological studies of modern bison and historical documentation of bison herd locations both models are shown to be empirically untenable, as bison did not behave in ways which these models would predict. Bison patterns for the North Dakota region are reconstructed through the conjunction of ecological data, historical observations of bison locations, and studies on North Dakota grasslands: large and small herds of bison were present in all grassland zones on a year-round basis; furthermore the high quality of forage in all these zones obviated the need for lengthy migrations. Migratory behavior was localized and due to unpredictable natural and cultural stimuli.