20 Interesting Facts About European Bison (Wisents)

The mighty European bison, also known as wisents, are fascinating animals equipped with impressive horns. Unfortunately, humans have long driven them out of their natural habitats, nearly leading to their extinction. Thankfully, about a hundred years ago, people recognized the need to protect these magnificent creatures and took steps to preserve their population.

While the effort has not been entirely successful, significant progress has been made, and if we continue on this path, we might be able to ensure their survival.

Facts About European Bison

1. Historical Range: During the Middle Ages, European bison roamed throughout Europe, but human activities eventually drove them to near extinction.
2. Two Subspecies: There were originally two subspecies of European bison: the Caucasian and the lowland bison. Unfortunately, purebred Caucasian bison became extinct, but the species was partially preserved through crossbreeding the last individuals with their lowland relatives.
3. Close Relatives: The closest relatives of the European bison are the American bison and domestic cattle.
4. Survival in Belarus: Belarus is the only country in the world where European bison still exist in the wild.
5. Near Extinction: In the 1920s, the last wild European bison were killed. At that time, only 12 individuals remained worldwide, all of which were kept in zoos. The current population descends from these few survivors.
6. Current Population: Today, there are approximately 5,500 European bison in the world.
7. Chromosome Count: European bison have 60 chromosomes, compared to 46 in humans.
8. Largest European Mammal: The European bison is the largest and heaviest land mammal in Europe.
9. Impressive Size: Adult European bison can reach up to 3 meters in length, with a shoulder height of up to 1.8 meters, and can weigh over 1 ton.
10. Thick Fur: European bison are covered in dense fur, except for their hooves, horns, the outer edge of their nostrils, and the center of their upper lip.
11. Winter Coat: In winter, they grow a thicker and longer coat to better withstand harsh cold temperatures.
12. Similar Appearance to American Bison: European bison are very similar in appearance to American bison.
13. Lifespan: European bison can live up to 25 years or more.
14. Early Independence: Newborn calves can stand, walk, and follow their mother within just one to two hours after birth.
15. Cultural Symbol: In ancient times, some cultures revered the European bison, associating them with symbols of their homeland.
16. Crossbreeding with American Bison: European bison can interbreed with American bison, producing viable and fertile offspring known as “zubrobison.”
17. Agility: Despite their bulky appearance, European bison can leap over obstacles as high as 2 meters while running.
18. Matriarchal Herds: In European bison herds, it is always a female that leads the group, unlike in cattle, where a male often takes the lead.
19. Ancient Hunting Practices: Archaeological findings indicate that prehistoric humans hunted European bison using spears, clubs, and traps.
20. Białowieża Forest: The Białowieża Forest in Belarus is the largest reserve in the world where European bison are protected.