Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

The European bison is a large herbivore that became extinct in the wild 90 years ago. Its existence is still threatened, despite the fact that extensive conservation efforts have improved the status of the species. Several reintroductions have been made in countries around Europe, with mixed results. This study aims to investigate how a reintroduction in Sweden could best be implemented, with focus on the needs and behaviours of the European bison. This report describes what kind of risks that are associated with a reintroduction and how to prevent them, as well as how a reintroduction should proceed practically regarding for instance the habitat, the size of the area, number of individuals and composition of the herd.
Based on the literature research, the conclusion that a reintroduction could be beneficial for both the European bison as a species, and the biodiversity could be made. The habitat should include wood and grasslands with a sufficient food supply. It is important that the reintroduction area is large with an enough distance to roads and human settlements. This would minimize the risk of conflicts and accidents, as well as preventing fragmentation and barriers by a connected habitat. Hälleskogsbrännan, a nature reserve located in Västmanland, Sweden, is an example of an area suitable for reintroduction of European bison based on these criteria. After a completed reintroduction a detailed assessment should be made to determine whether the project has succeeded and what could possibly be revised.