Officials Welcome First Wild Bison in 10,000 Years After Major Restoration Initiative

Non-profit conservationist group Rewilding Europe has announced the successful release of eight European bison at the Herdade do Vale Feitoso Estate in the Castelo Branco District of eastern Portugal. This marks the first time in 10,000 years that wild bison have roamed this region.

Collaboration with International Partners

The translocation of the bison was made possible through a collaborative effort with the Polish State Forest, European Friends Society, and the European Bison Conservation Center. These organizations helped transport the herd from various reserves throughout Poland.

Goals of the Bison Reintroduction

The primary goals of reintroducing the bison include preventing wildfires, controlling the spread of invasive species, and fostering biodiversity across the 7,600-hectare estate. These efforts are seen as critical to maintaining and enhancing the local ecosystem.

Impact on Wildfire Prevention

Bison play a crucial role in reducing wildfire risks by consuming flammable vegetation, creating natural firebreaks, and clearing forested areas. This activity allows more light to reach the ground, promoting the growth of grass instead of scrub, which is less flammable.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Benefits

American Bison grazing in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. Image via Depositphotos

Through their grazing, foraging, trampling, and fertilizing activities, bison support diverse landscapes of forests, scrubs, grasslands, and other micro-habitats. Studies have shown that these behaviors promote and protect biodiversity and enhance carbon sequestration in vegetation and soil.

Historical Context of Bison in Iberian Peninsula

American Bison. Image by dmbaker via Depositphotos

These bison are the first of their kind to live in the Iberian Peninsula since the now-extinct steppe bison roamed the region thousands of years ago during the last ice age. While not native to Portugal, European bison have shown they can acclimate to the hot and dry conditions of the Mediterranean.

Adaptation and Survival in New Habitat

Herd of the American bisons in the spring steppe. Image by anmbph via Depositphotos

Research has found that European bison introduced to southern Spain have adapted well to the local climate, indicating a strong potential for success in Portugal as well. This rewilding effort is seen as mutually beneficial for both the bison and the environment.

Conservation Success and Population Growth

Wildlife in Europe. Bison herd in the autumn forest, sunny scene with big brown animal in the nature habitat, yellow leaves on the trees, Bialowieza NP, Poland. Wildlife scene from nature.

The European bison population has increased from 2,500 to 9,000 over the last decade, thanks in part to Rewilding Europe’s efforts. This project continues that success by expanding the bison’s range and helping ensure their survival.

Ecotourism Opportunities

Once the bison have adjusted to their new habitat, tour groups will be able to view them, adding an ecotourism dimension to the project. This will help raise awareness and support for conservation efforts.

Monitoring and Management

Rewilding Portugal team leader Pedro Prata emphasized that this translocation is being viewed as a pilot project. The bison will be closely monitored to assess their acclimatization to the local landscape and climate.

Training for Bison Management

Big old bison in nature. Image by fotoluxstudio via Depositphotos

Members of the Rewilding Portugal team will receive training in bison management to ensure the success of the project. This training will help the team effectively monitor and care for the bison.

Future Prospects for Bison in Portugal

The success of this pilot project could pave the way for future bison reintroductions in other parts of Portugal and beyond. The project’s outcomes will provide valuable insights into the feasibility and benefits of such efforts.

Challenges and Considerations

While the project holds great promise, there are challenges to be addressed, including ensuring the bison’s long-term survival and integrating them into the existing ecosystem without causing disruption.

Community Involvement and Support

Local communities are being encouraged to support and participate in the project. Public engagement and education will be key to the project’s success and sustainability.

Broader Implications for Conservation

Buffalo bison calf on green pasture Image by krisrobin via Depositphotos

The reintroduction of bison in Portugal is part of a broader effort to restore natural habitats and biodiversity across Europe. This project highlights the importance of collaborative conservation initiatives.

Conclusion

The return of wild bison to Portugal after 10,000 years is a historic milestone for conservation. This project not only benefits the environment but also provides an opportunity for people to reconnect with nature and support biodiversity.

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Linnea H, BSc Sociology

Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Sociology

Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.

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