The magnificent American buffalo was recognized as the official animal symbol of Kansas in 1955. A male bison can weigh over 1800 pounds and is 6 foot tall at the shoulder. Buffalo once roamed the American prairie by the tens of millions and provided a way of life for the plains Indians. European settlers hunted buffalo to the brink of extinction - it's estimated that between 300 - 500 animals remainedwhen the federal government passed stricter game laws in 1889.

The Buffalo is also featured on the U.S. Mint's bicentennial quarter for Kansas, the official state seal, and the state flag of Kansas.

The buffalo is an inseparable part of American history; no other wild animal has played such a significant role in human affairs. The tribes of the American plains relied on bison for food, shelter, clothing, and as a powerful spiritual symbol.

Source:

Kansas Quick Facts: Office of the Governor
Nature: American Buffalo: PBS
Bison (Bison bison): South Dakota Northern University
Kansas state quarter: U.S. Mint

Links:

Bison: Yellowstone National Park Photos
State Animals - Mammals: 50 States List