Bison are majestic, powerful creatures that roam the grasslands of North America. Often referred to as "the American buffalo," these animals are a vital part of the ecosystem and play an important role in the health of the land. There are many ways bison contribute to the environment, and one of these ways is through their feces, which is known as bison poop or bison dung.
According to the NPS, bison produce around 10 - 12 quarts of dung and gallons of urine daily and is full of nutrients. The nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, sulfur, and magnesium for microbes provided by bison poop create a natural fertilizer that helps nourish the soil and support the growth of plants. Bison also graze on a variety of grasses and plants, which helps to diversify the nutrients in their feces. This diversity of nutrients is beneficial for the soil and can lead to healthier and more diverse plant growth.
Bison poop is also an important food source for a variety of animals. Many insects, such as dung beetles and flies, feed on the feces, breaking it down and helping to enrich the soil. NPS states that "as many as 300 species of insects will live in one bison patty, and 1,000 individual insects will occupy that same patty from the time it's deposited to its removal" and can produce over 3000 flies! The nutrition from the dung helps create new plant life that ultimately helps other animals thrive where bison live.
In conclusion, bison poop is a valuable resource that plays an important role in the health of the environment. It is a natural fertilizer that supports plant growth and is an important food source for a variety of insects.