European Bison

The European Bison is the largest native land mammal in Europe, standing up to 2 metres tall at the shoulder, with bulls weighing around 800 kilograms. It can be told apart from the American Bison by its smaller shoulder hump, longer legs, and less thick coat. Its fur is dark brown, becoming a bit lighter in winter. Both males and females have short horns that curve forward. In the past, European Bison were found all over Europe. Now, wild populations are mostly found in Poland and Belarus, especially in the Białowieża Forest. There are also groups that have been brought back to the wild in several other countries. They live in forests made up of both deciduous and coniferous trees, with nearby meadows and open spaces. European Bison are very social animals. Females and their young live in groups led by a dominant female. Adult males usually live alone or in small groups of young males, except during the autumn breeding season when they come together.