What does the largest animal in North America need to survive? Objective Students will understand how bison have adaptations to help them survive in their environment. Background The American bison is the largest land mammal in North America. Since it is native to this continent, it has developed some special adaptations to help it survive in its environment. An adaptation is a special skill or physical attribute that living things develop over time to help them survive and thrive in their habitat. These may be adaptations for defense against predators, adaptations to take advantage of food re Duration: 60 Minutes.