Which large mammal was reintroduced to Arkansas in the 20th century after being eliminated?

The reintroduction of elk to Arkansas in the 20th century marks an important conservation effort aimed at restoring the state's natural ecosystem. Elk were once native to Arkansas but were eliminated due to overhunting and habitat loss by the late 1800s. Their reintroduction in the 1980s, particularly in the Buffalo River area, was part of a broader restoration initiative that aimed to enhance biodiversity and create sustainable populations of native species.

Elk play a vital role in their ecosystem, contributing to plant diversity through their grazing habits and acting as prey for predators, thus maintaining a balanced food web. The success of this reintroduction is evident, as elk populations have since grown, leading to opportunities for viewing and hunting, thereby fostering a connection between wildlife and the community.

The other large mammals listed either were never eliminated from Arkansas or were not the focus of reintroduction efforts during that century.