Programme roles

Saving the European bison from extinction is considered one of the biggest successes in European conservation for which zoo populations were essential. Zoo populations are still essential in the continued conservation efforts of this species within Europe.

	• Insurance The EEP will function as an insurance population for the in situ population as the EEP population is demographically stable, behaviorally competent and genetically healthy. • Population restoration The EEP will provide behaviourally competent and genetically valuable individuals for release into the wild and semi-wild as appropriate and needed. • Education The European bison is the largest terrestrial animal in Europe but it is not well known and often confused with the American bison. Additionally few people are aware of the species’ extinction and the role that zoos have played in saving the species. It is important to raise awareness and get support from the general public but also among politicians to advocate for release of European bison in areas around Europe and improve the conservation status of the species. • Advocacy It is important to keep advocating for the European bison and to key messaging around the ‘second momentum for bison’ a century after their extinction. • Research The EEP population can be used to develop research on new methods and techniques that can benefit the management and conservation of the in and ex situ populations. Examples include: studies on assisted reproduction, husbandry, anesthesia, contraception and vaccination.
	• Model species European bison can be used as example of how reintroduction can be successful but also that the populations need continued management.

This work is supported by the European Union LIFE NGO funding programme. The European Union is not responsible for the views displayed in publications and/or in conjunction with the activities for which the grant is used.