Search


American Prairie Exhibit

The National Zoo and American Bison:
A Century of Preservation

Two hundred years ago, tens of millions of bison—the continent's largest land mammal, and an herbivore—roamed the American prairie. By the end of the 19th century, fewer than 1,000 remained. The disappearance of bison inspired conservationist William Temple Hornaday to work for the establishment of the National Zoo more than 110 years ago. Bison became one of the Zoo's first residents, and today the species is safe from extinction. New generations of bison inspire new generations of people.

Grasses: The Glue That Binds the Prairie Ecosystem

prairie grassMore than 40 species of grasses and herbaceous broadleaf plants native to the American heartland are displayed at American Prairie and along the Prairie Plant Discovery Trail. Some of the grasses, like the big bluestem, exceed six feet in height and have spectacular foliage. Other plant specimens such as the bergamot, yarrow, blazing star, coneflower, and tickweed adorn themselves in brilliantly colored flowers.

Page Controls