Matriarchs of the plains: restoring the bison, reviving tradition
Members of WWF's Native Nations team and partners talk about what the return of the bison means to the grasslands and Indigenous communities in the Great Plains.
© WWF-US
The plains bison is a matriarchal led species, relying on the wisdom of experienced females to guide the herd. Traditional Lakota culture follows the bison's social structure, placing great value in the women-led leadership.
For the Lakota people, bison are seen as living relatives who provide spiritual and physical sustenance. Historically, bison provided the Indigenous communities with essential for daily life, including food, shelter, and tools. Up to 60 million bison once roamed North America, but European settlers wiped out the bison population to as few as 500 by the end of the 19th century. This loss threatened the survival of the Lakota people and their way of life.
Today, bison are making a comeback to their ancestral home, thanks to the vision and perseverance of Native Nations.
How you can help
© WWF-US/Clay Bolt
Support Tribes restore buffalo to the Great Plains
The Indian Buffalo Management Act would strengthen support for Tribal Nations who are working to bring buffalo back from the brink of extinction.
