Corona in Queens in Queens County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Bison: An American Icon Saved
Where the Buffalo Roamed
At one time, more than 60 million bison roamed the continent. During the 1800s they were hunted nearly to extinction. By 1889, fewer than 1,000 survived.
The Wildlife Conservation Society Steps In
In 1899, the New York Zoological Society (NYZS) purchased seven bison from private owners and began a successful breeding program at its Bronx Zoo.
The NYZS went on to become the Wildlife Conservation Society, and we are still raising bison in the Bronx today.
Back to the Plains
Our successful breeding program at the Bronx Zoo allowed bison to be sent back to the Plains to help restock depleted wild bison populations. Many of the bison out West today are descended from our small original herd at the Bronx Zoo.
Erected by Wildlife Conservation Society.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Parks & Recreational Areas • Science & Medicine. A significant historical year for this entry is 1889.
Location. 40° 44.709′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Pronghorn: Masters of Migration (within shouting distance of this marker); Coyote (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Life and Times of the Coyote (about 300 feet away); Our Rescued Eagles (about 400 feet away); Animals of the Americas (about 400 feet away); Canadian Lynx (about 400 feet away); WCS In Action: Big Cat Conservation (about 400 feet away); We're Working to Save Andean Bears (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Queens.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 31, 2023. It was originally submitted on March 14, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 67 times since then and 27 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on March 14, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
