Russia breeds almost 100 red-listed bison in 1 year

The Kaluzhskie Zaseki Nature Reserve under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation has achieved a record-breaking bison birth rate, with 97 calves born in 2024.

According to the ministry's website, this marks the third consecutive year of increased reproduction for the endangered species, following 73 births in 2022 and 91 in 2023.

In March 2024, the reserve recorded 548 bison, compared to 473 in 2023. Notably, the population growth in recent years has been entirely due to natural reproduction, with no animals introduced from other regions.

2025 also saw the establishment of the reserve’s largest maternity herd to date, comprising 51 animals.

The bison census is conducted annually from December to March, with researchers covering extensive distances on snowmobiles and amphibious vehicles. They track bison movements, study their daily patterns, and identify resting areas. Visual counts are carried out at feeding sites, which attract most of the reserve’s bison population.

Additionally, data from camera traps are used to ensure accurate population estimates.

Photo: Press service of the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia