🇺🇸 Trivia of the Day
Published on November 11, 2025
Which animal was designated by President Barack Obama as the national mammal of the United States?
The correct answer is Bison. In 2016, President Barack Obama signed the National Bison Legacy Act, officially designating the majestic American bison (Bison bison) as the national mammal of the United States. This legislation recognized the bison’s historical, cultural, and ecological significance to the country.
The American bison has long symbolized strength, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the American West. Once numbering in the tens of millions, the species was driven to near extinction in the late 19th century due to overhunting and habitat loss. Thanks to conservation efforts led by organizations like the National Wildlife Federation and the U.S. Department of the Interior, bison populations have rebounded to over 500,000 animals across public and private lands today.
The bison joins the bald eagle as one of America’s most enduring national symbols. Native American tribes revere the bison as a sacred animal, representing abundance, unity, and respect for nature. It continues to roam iconic landscapes such as Yellowstone National Park and the Great Plains, reminding Americans of their country’s natural heritage and ongoing commitment to wildlife preservation.
Fun fact: The American bison is the largest land mammal in North America — adult males can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and run at speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour.