qT=2&tQ=Before Colonists arrived, at least ___________ American Bison lived in North America.&tC=1|1 million|10 million|30 million&cC=4&fB=Before the arrival of European Colonists, at least 30 million American Bison roamed North America in vast herds. Throughout the 19th century, bison were aggressively hunted for their pelts, meat (especially their tongues), and for sport.<br><br>By the turn of the century, there were only 750 surviving bison. Due to government protection and breeding programs, bison have made an impressive comeback. They now number about 80,000, but only live in parks, reserves, and private collections.