Bison Show Reserve

The European Bison Show Reserve, established in 1929 in the Białowieża Forest, was the first step towards saving and restoring the European bison, which had gone extinct in the wild after World War I. After the last individuals were registered in zoos, the International Society for the Protection of the European Bison, founded in 1923 by Professor Jan Sztolcman, took action to protect the species. The reserve was expanded several times to provide suitable conditions for pure-blooded bison. After World War II, in 1945, construction of a new reserve began, and in 1955, the Rare Animal Breeding Center was established, which became part of the Białowieża National Park. Today, the reserve covers an area of 27.9 hectares, showcasing animals in near-natural conditions, including European bison, Polish Konik horses, moose, deer, and wolves. Visitors can also purchase local handicrafts and honey at the reserve. An interesting fact is the postage stamp issued by the Polish Post in 2022, commemorating this place. The reserve is not only a tourist attraction but also an important site for the protection and restoration of endangered species.