Bison Paddock: A Glimpse of the American West in Golden Gate Park

Nestled in Golden Gate Park, the Bison Paddock provides a surprising encounter with the American West. Since 1891, bison have roamed this urban oasis, offering visitors a chance to connect with wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. In the late 1800s, the American bison population dwindled to near extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss. Golden Gate Park Superintendent John McLaren took a bold step by introducing a small herd to the park as part of a breeding program. The first bison, a bull named Ben Harrison, arrived from a Kansas ranch in 1891. Within two years, Ben Harrison and a female bison named Sarah Bernhardt welcomed a calf, marking the beginning of a successful breeding program. Over the years, more than 500 calves were born in Golden Gate Park, playing a vital role in saving the species from extinction. Today, the paddock is home to a herd of female bison, descendants of the original animals. The San Francisco Zoo & Gardens staff diligently care for the bison, providing daily feeding and veterinary services, while the Recreation and Parks Department maintains the paddock and grounds. The bison graze, interact, and embody a piece of the American West within the city. Informative plaques detail the history and significance of bison in American culture.