The return of wildlife in the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria marks another exciting step forward. In June, eight more European bison were introduced in two stages to “Zhenda” – one of the priority landscapes for the Rewilding Rhodopes Foundation. The European bison is one of the endangered large herbivores and a symbol of the rewilding efforts in Europe.
The animals (two males and six females) were transported from the State Game Reserve “Voden – Iri Hisar.” Two of them were fitted with satellite transmitter collars, enabling specialists to monitor the animals’ movements and behavior in real time – a key element for their successful adaptation. Careful logistics and attention during transportation were again a priority. During both transports, two Romanian veterinarians played a crucial role, ensuring the animals’ safety through professional sedation, continuous monitoring of their condition, and a smooth recovery from anesthesia.
All eight bison – two aged three years and the rest around two years – will remain within an adaptation enclosure for approximately one month. During this period, specialists will monitor them daily to observe their health and adaptation to the new environment. Initial observations indicate that the animals are adapting well, exhibiting calm behavior and regular feeding – signs of successful acclimatization. Their gradual release into the wild will take place after this period to ensure a safe transition to their new habitat.
The bison relocation program in the Zhenda area is a long-term initiative of the Rewilding Rhodopes Foundation, with plans to transport and introduce additional animals in the future to ensure a sustainable population in the region. The bison reintroduction efforts in Zhenda began late last year, with the release of the first small group of animals from Slovakia.
The program is carried out with the support of numerous partners and is a key element in nature restoration efforts in the region. This current activity is a critical first step in the reintroduction of bison to the area, which is located in the northwestern part of the Rewilding Rhodopes Foundation’s landscape. It is part of a partnership for the restoration of wildlife in the Rhodopes with the South-Central State Enterprise – Smolyan and the Territorial Division “Zhenda.”