Bison _________image_________ The above information from an Environment Canada pamphlet, describes the differences between plains and wood bison. Both varieties may be viewed at Elk Island Park. Bison possess a high tolerance to cold and are able to forage on open range more efficiently than cattle. Unlike cattle, they face into the wind, easily protected by their insulating forequarters hair. They are not hesitant to ford rivers or small bodies of water, usually traveling in the most practical and direct route. In deep snow they form a line, the leaders creating a passable pathway. Calves are small at birth and reddish orange in color for their first few months; the herd shares protective responsibilities. During matting season in particular, bulls’ bellows and roars are audible for great distances. The entire herd grunts, snorts, and sneezes, also adding the unbecoming traits of grinding teeth and stamping feet. Diseases threatening bison mortality are anthrax, tuberculosis, and brucellosis (Bang’s disease). Bison are also host to several varieties of parasites.