The European Bison Show Reserve in Międzyzdroje

The European Bison Show Reserve in Woliński National Park is a unique location situated in the heart of the forest, approximately 2 km southeast of Międzyzdroje, within the Kamień County of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Established in 1976, it covers an area of 28 hectares, including 20 hectares of bison enclosure and 0.5 hectares of quarantine zone. The beginnings of bison breeding at this reserve are associated with the arrival of four individuals from the Borecka and Białowieża Forests. Currently, the reserve is home to between six and twelve bison, with one to two calves born each year. The names given to them, which begin with the syllable "Po-", are recorded in the European Bison Pedigree Book, representing an interesting breeding practice. To avoid excessive inbreeding, new bulls are introduced from outside the herd. The Wolińskie bison do not live in the wild due to the poor nutritional base in the surrounding forests. A special quarantine area is designated for newly arrived or sick animals. The reserve is also home to other species, such as roe deer and wild boars, which are rehabilitated before being returned to their natural environment. Designated aviaries house birds of prey, including the famous white-tailed eagle Jurand, who, for health reasons, will remain in the reserve permanently. The site offers organized tourist routes with viewing platforms and educational boards, attracting over 160,000 visitors annually. Access to the reserve is possible via three popular tourist trails, making it an attractive destination for nature and tourism enthusiasts. The architectural and educational values of this place are emphasized by its role in the protection and rehabilitation of wildlife, as well as the diversity of flora and fauna on display. It is worth noting the combination of breeding activities with educational aspects, which contributes to raising awareness about the protection of these majestic animals in Poland.