A symbol of wild America, bison have remained an untamed story of enduring spirit over the last half million years.

In fact, they have been recognized as the national mammal of the United States.

As the lifeblood of the Great Plains, they shaped the land and served as a vital resource for indigenous people who revered them as sacred beings.

These resilient creatures faced the brink of extinction.

Yet against all odds, they have survived.

Though it may be hard to imagine, these great mammals once roamed the foothills of South Carolina and to this day can be seen grazing at one of the wildest ranches in the Palmetto State.

Before the 19th century, upwards of 30 million bison were estimated to have lived in North America.

In the centuries prior, Native American tribes heavily relied on them for sustenance, clothing, tools and shelter.

More than that, bison held an immense cultural significance, forming a profound connection between the people and the natural world.

The arrival of European settlers, driven by westward expansion and the desire for buffalo hides, marked the beginning of a tragic chapter in bison history.

The bison were relentlessly hunted, their numbers decimated, and their habitats destroyed.

Though predominantly found in the Western Plains, there were also bison populations in the Piedmont Prairies, a term used to describe the grassland ecosystem that stretched from New Jersey to Alabama between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic coastal plain.

By the 1770s, wild bison had virtually disappeared east of the Mississippi River.

Over the next hundred years, the bison population dwindled to less than a thousand individuals left in the world.

Recognizing the urgent need for conservation, visionaries such as William T. Hornaday and Theodore Roosevelt worked tirelessly to protect the remaining bison.

Through the establishment of national parks, private ranches, captive breeding programs, and the efforts of Native American tribes, the bison population slowly began to recover.

Today, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the bison population in the United States has rebounded to approximately half a million.

While bison and buffalo are often used interchangeably, these are two distinct animals.

Bison, scientifically known as bison bison, are native to North America, while buffalo, such as the African Cape Buffalo and the Asian water buffalo, exist on other continents and are only distant relatives.

When the first settlers arrived in North America, they knew about these buffalo and because of the curled in horns and brown fur, bison got their buffalo nomenclature.

Alternatively, it is believed this misnomer was caused by French fur trappers working in the new world during the 1600s who referred to the animals as "BSuf," which translates to beef.

Bison are the largest mammals found in North America.

Adults can weigh anywhere from 1,000 pounds for females to 2,500 pounds for the large males.

Despite their immense size, bison are surprisingly agile.

They can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, jump six feet high, and are known to be strong swimmers.

As social animals, they travel in herds.

A herd size can vary, ranging from a few dozen to thousands.

Within the herd lies a social hierarchy, typically based off age.

Though there are dominant males known as bulls within a herd, groups are directed by a female matriarch.

Calves are born between April and June after nine months of pregnancy.

A baby bison can weigh as much as 40 to 45 pounds at birth.

Due to their reddish tan coat, bison calves are affectionately called red dogs.

After a few months, their hair will change to a familiar dark brown and their characteristic shoulder hump and horns will begin to grow.

Bison also display some unique animal behaviors.

They communicate by using a series of low grunts to maintain contact with one another and will snort to warn away any intruders.

The Bison's iconic hump comprised of strong muscle surrounding the spine, allows them to use their head as a snowplow when trekking through arduous terrain in the winter.

They also engage in wallowing a behavior that involves rolling around in dirt or mud.

Wallowing aids in skin and fur maintenance by helping to remove seasonal coats, as well as protect the bison from biting insects.

Wallowing also plays a social role within bison herds.

This behavior allows them to leave scent markings, enhancing communication and signaling territorial boundaries to other members of the herd or potential rivals.

Nestled in Enchanting York County, Tatanka Ranch stands as a haven for bison enthusiasts.

Founded in 2015, this remarkable sanctuary is home to a thriving herd of 44 bison.

The name Tatanka derives from the Lakota tribe's word for bison, signifying the deep respect and reverence that the ranch holds for these majestic creatures.

Following the Native American philosophy Tatanka Ranch is dedicated to providing a natural environment for the bison, where they can thrive as nature intended.

The bison at Tatanka Ranch are exclusively grass fed, adhering to a wholesome and sustainable diet.

With a motto of preservation, education and agritourism, the ranch not only aims to protect and preserve the bison, but also to educate visitors about their history and significance.

Offering a variety of informative tours Tatanka Ranch provides guests with the opportunity to delve into the captivating world of bison, learn about their rich heritage, and gain insights into their fascinating behaviors.

In addition to its conservation and educational efforts Tatanka Ranch proudly offers the opportunity for visitors to experience the flavors of bison through the sale of its own bison meat.

Known for its lean and nutritious qualities, bison meat can be a healthy alternative to more traditional meats.

The ranch also plays a pivotal role in the vibrant local community by hosting the highly anticipated annual event known as the South Carolina AG and Art Tour.

This free self-guided tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through various farms and markets, showcasing the talents of local artisans.

The event provides a unique opportunity for individuals to gain firsthand knowledge of the origins of their food, as well as witness artists in action.

At Tatanka Ranch, this event comes to life with the presence of ten specially selected artisans, each demonstrating and selling their exquisite works.

Adding an extra touch of cultural immersion, a 26 foot authentic teepee is set up where Native American demonstrations provide an enriching glimpse into the traditions and heritage of the land.

As visitors explore the ranch's, picturesque landscapes.

They can catch a glimpse of the bison roaming freely encapsulating the essence of rural life and providing a newfound respect for these amazing and wild animals.