European bison

Habitat destruction & overhunting led to extinction in the wild, now gradually being reintroduced

Michael Gäbler


European bison

EXEWCRENVUNTLCDDNE

Habitat destruction & overhunting led to extinction in the wild, now gradually being reintroduced

Population 9,558
15 – 18% yearly increase in population

Dwelling in the temperate deciduous forests of Europe, these majestic animals are a sight to behold, with their formidable size and regal demeanor. They rank among the largest land mammals in Europe, reaching heights of up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) and weights surpassing 900 kilograms (approximately 2,000 pounds). The European bison’s distinctive appearance is further accentuated by its dense, shaggy mane that drapes elegantly down its neck and shoulders, complemented by a rich brown coat that provides insulation against the chill of the forest.

As herbivores, European bison play a crucial role in their ecosystems. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, and other vegetation, which they forage within the undergrowth of their forested habitats. This feeding behavior not only sustains the bison but also contributes to the maintenance of habitat diversity by controlling the growth of certain plant species.

The history of the European bison is a tale of triumph over adversity. Once roaming freely across Europe and parts of Asia, these animals were hunted to the brink of extinction, with their numbers dwindling drastically due to overhunting and habitat loss. By the early 20th century, the grim reality had set in: the European bison had been exterminated in the wild, surviving only in captivity. This dire situation sparked an international response, leading to one of the first major wildlife conservation efforts of its kind.

Through the concerted efforts of conservationists, scientists, and governments, a breeding and reintroduction program was established, drawing on the small captive population that remained. These efforts have borne fruit, with the European bison’s numbers gradually increasing over the decades. Today, thanks to these dedicated conservation initiatives, the population has rebounded to over 6,000 individuals, with several free-ranging herds successfully reestablished in their natural habitats across Europe.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Austria
11
Official estimate
NT
2020
Azerbaijan
18
Official estimate
NT
2020
Belarus
2,356
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Belgium
22
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Bulgaria
68
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Croatia
2
Official estimate
NT
2020
Czechia
142
Official estimate
NT
2020
Denmark
16
Official estimate
NT
2020
Estonia
12
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Finland
15
Official estimate
NT
2020
France
123
Official estimate
NT
2020
Germany
609
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Hungary
61
Official estimate
NT
2020
Ireland
15
Official estimate
NT
2020
Italy
3
Official estimate
NT
2020
Latvia
5
2020
Liechtenstein
Official estimate
EX
Extinct 1927
Lithuania
329
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Moldova
7
2020
Reintroduced
Netherlands
78
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Poland
2,316
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Portugal
2
2020
Romania
214
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Russia
1,798
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Serbia
5
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Slovakia
85
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
Spain
142
Official estimate
NT
2020
Sweden
142
Official estimate
NT
2020
Switzerland
50
Official estimate
NT
2020
Ukraine
387
Official estimate
NT
2020
Reintroduced
United Kingdom
4
Official estimate
NT
2020

Recent updates

  • 2023: According to All About Bison, in certain regions, the European bison population has made remarkable progress, with a recent report indicating the establishment of a new herd consisting of approximately 150 individuals.

Did you know?

  • Both males and females have horns.
  • European bison have less sharp eyesight compared to their other senses. Their large forward-facing eyes offer a broad field of view rather than precise visual details, making it challenging for them to discern distant objects or fine details.
  • The footprints of European bison resemble those of cattle and moose. Their front hooves create larger imprints compared to their hind legs.

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No

European Bison

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