Wasn't the Bison Almost Wiped Out by Hunters?

Market hunting (killing animals for the purpose of selling their hide, meat, or parts) nearly exterminated the North American bison in the 1800s. Since there were few laws and no enforcement to protect wildlife, hunters killed as many animals as they could and did whatever they wanted with the carcasses.

At the turn of the century, concerned hunters, such as former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, banded together to form the Boone and Crockett Club. The Club worked with other organizations and citizens to pass legislation to protect wildlife for future generations. Thanks to the efforts of these early conservationists, once-rare species like white-tailed deer, elk, pronghorn, wood ducks and wild turkeys are now abundant enough for us to hunt and enjoy once again.