How the European Bison came back from the brink

Once widespread across Europe, the last wild European bison was killed by poachers in 1927. Since the 1950s bison have been reintroduced into the wild, bred from 12 animals remaining in captivity. The species is off the critically endangered list but still faces challenges from a lack of knowledge in communities, habitat loss and a narrow genetic base.

They now number almost 7000 and free-ranging herds can be found in many European countries. Bison hadn’t been seen in Romania for more than 200 years but since 2014, groups have been released every year. There are now over 120 living freely in the Tarcu Mountains. This rewilding is not only a boon for the bison but for the wider ecosystem, bringing benefits for some 600 species - from microorganisms to large carnivores.

RAZOR’s Emma Keeling treks through the Tarcu Mountains in search of bison. Meeting the team of WeWilder involved in the rewilding project, jointly led by the WWF and Rewilding Europe. We also see how the return of bison has given the local community opportunities to provide ecotourism services and guiding experiences in the area.