The North American bison played a critical role in the development of the Trans-Mississippi West, so it's only fitting that Congress recently sent President Obama H.R. 2908, a bill designating the bison (or "buffalo," if you prefer) as the official mammal of the United States of America.
That's a pretty great pick as far as we're concerned.
Please enjoy these photos from our Digital Collections featuring the majestic mammal that made the West.