The Northwest Territories (N.W.T.) has observed a decrease in the number of bison road collisions. Between 2021 and 2025, the N.W.T. Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) documented 60 bison-related accidents. However, in 2026, only one collision has been reported so far.
Terry Armstrong, a bison ecologist at ECC, credits wildfires for this reduction in collisions. He explains that fires prompt bison to alter their habitat preferences, often moving towards recently burned areas where they can find favorable vegetation.
Due to extensive wildfires in recent years, more bison are opting for recovering wildfire zones over roadsides rich in vegetation, leading to a decline in collisions. This trend is positive news for the N.W.T. bison population, which is categorized as a threatened species at both territorial and national levels.
According to Armstrong, the current bison population in the N.W.T. is estimated to be several thousand, with ECC approximating the number at slightly over 2,500. Collisions between 2021 and 2025 resulted in the deaths of at least 76 bison, with a significant number occurring along Highway 3.
As the rutting season spans from August to September, motorists are advised to be cautious, as bison may exhibit aggressive behavior during this period. Armstrong highlights the importance of reduced speed, giving bison space, and avoiding actions that may startle them, particularly when dealing with dominant males.
With the return of darker conditions, visibility decreases, especially during dawn and dusk, increasing the risk of collisions. Armstrong emphasizes the significance of driving carefully, refraining from honking at bison, and never attempting to approach or pet them due to their size and potentially aggressive nature.
Bison, being the largest land mammals in North America, have a long history of survival and uniqueness, making their conservation and safety critical.
