The N.W.T. Department of Environment and Climate Change has observed a decrease in the number of bison collisions on roads in recent years. Between 2021 and 2025, there were a total of 60 collisions with bison reported, whereas in 2026, only one collision has been recorded so far.
Bison ecologist Terry Armstrong attributes this decline in collisions to the impact of wildfires on bison behavior. He explains that wildfires prompt bison to shift their habitat preferences towards recently burnt areas, where they can find favorable conditions for grazing on fresh vegetation.
With extensive areas being affected by wildfires in recent times, more bison are opting for post-fire landscapes over roadside vegetation, leading to a reduction in collisions. This trend is positive news for the wood bison population in the N.W.T., as they are classified as a threatened species both regionally and nationally.
According to Armstrong, the current wood bison population in the N.W.T. is estimated to be several thousand, with the ECC approximating it at slightly over 2,500 individuals. Unfortunately, collisions between 2021 and 2025 resulted in the deaths of at least 76 bison, with a significant number of incidents occurring along Highway 3.
As the rutting season approaches from August to September, Armstrong warns of potential encounters with more aggressive bison on the roads. During this period, bison engage in mating rituals and territorial disputes, increasing the risk of collisions with vehicles.
Reduced visibility during dawn and dusk, compounded by the absence of snow, further heightens the collision risk during this time of the year. Armstrong advises drivers to exercise caution, maintain a safe distance from bison, and refrain from provoking them, especially during rutting season when male bison can display aggressive behavior.
Emphasizing the importance of respecting these majestic animals, Armstrong urges people to avoid attempting to interact with bison and highlights the significance of preserving their dwindling population, as they are a unique and enduring species in North America.