Search

For the purpose of nature management and species conservation, European bison (Bison bonasus) are being increasingly reintroduced into nature reserves across Europe. The aim of this study was to investigate European bison’s adaptability to new areas through the study of their parasite-EPG (eggs per gram feces) and dietary diversity during twelve months after translocation. We compared the parasite-EPG from introduced European bison in Lille Vildmose, Denmark, with the parasite-EPG from populations from Bornholm, Denmark, and Białowieża Forest, Poland. From March 2021 to February 2022, fecal samples were collected from three populations. Samples from Lille Vildmose were examined through flotation, sedimentation, the Baermann technique, and nanopore sequencing. Fecal samples from Bornholm and Białowieża were examined through flotation and sedimentation. Nanopore sequencing of DNA from 63 European bison’s fecal samples collected during March–September in Lille Vildmose identified 8 species of nematodes within the digestive tract of the European bison, with Haemonchus contortus being the most frequently observed. In Lille Vildmose, a significantly higher excretion of nematode-EPG was observed during the summer period than in the spring, autumn, and winter. In addition, monthly differences in the excretion of nematode eggs were found, with this being significantly higher in June than in the months during autumn and winter (October–February). Significant differences in the nematode-EPG were only found between the excretion of nematode eggs in Białowieża Forest when compared to that of Lille Vildmose, with significantly higher excretion in Lille Vildmose (October–November). The results indicate that the development rates for nematodes may be affected by changes in temperature, with increasing temperatures speeding up their development time. Independent of this study design, wildlife vets together with the gamekeepers managing the herd found it necessary to treat the herd with antiparasitics for practical and animal welfare reasons in relation to translocation. Furthermore, 79 plant taxa were identified in the diet of the European bison. The broadest diet was observed in March suggesting that the European bison quickly adapted to their new habitat. The results suggest a seasonal shift in their diet, with this being most apparent from March to April.

It is important to monitor the level of parasitic loads in herds of European bison and to identify threats early enough to prevent their spread to other populations or species. The aim of the present study was to compare the detection sensitivity of two fecal flotation techniques, viz. the modified Willis method (WM) with centrifugation and modified McMaster flotation technique (MM), in the diagnostics of gastrointestinal parasites of European bison before the translocation of animals.Out of 166 feces samples, Eimeria spp. oocysts (84.3% in WM and 71.1% in MM) and Trichostrongylidae eggs (82.5% in WM and 53.6% in MM) predominated. These were accompanied by eggs from Capillaria spp. (prevalence: 13.9% in WM and 3.61% in MM), Nematodirus spp. (prevalence: 18.1% in WM and 4.8% in MM) and Trichuris spp. (prevalence: 12.7% in WM and MM) were identified. The lowest prevalence was noted for cestode eggs of Moniezia spp. (5.4% in WM and 3.0% in MM).The Willis method yielded a higher prevalence of eggs and oocysts than the modified McMaster method, and hence has a higher probability of detecting parasitic structures than the modified McMaster method, especially in cases of very low levels of invasion.As the two methods yield consistent results, it is recommended to use the Willis method for diagnosis of internal parasite infection in European bison. This test offers more sensitive method than McMaster technique of detecting the presence of low levels of a variety of parasite eggs and oocysts in feces, while also being inexpensive and adaptable to field work.

In the period 1996–2012, two outbreaks of animal tuberculosis were noted in the population of free-living European bison (Bison bonasus caucasicus) in the Bieszczady Mountains, Southern Poland. As the European bison is an endangered species and particularly susceptible to tuberculosis, not to mention a national icon, the decision was made to test all deceased bison for TB in Poland. The screened bison were obtained by elimination due to poor health or natural death. A total of 159 European bison have been examined over the last 10 years. The individuals came from four regions of Poland (Białowieża Forest, Bieszczady Mountains, Borecka Forest, Knyszyńska Forest), not only from the area where tuberculosis is still endemic. Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium spp. hominisuis were identified in two different herds. The isolation of M. bovis from European bison was the first case described in Poland. So far, the only causative agent of tuberculosis identified in European bison in Poland, both in the wild and in captive herds, was Mycobacterium caprae. The isolated M. bovis spoligotype has not previously been registered in international spoligotype databases so far. The obtained results highlight the need to monitor TB in European bison in Poland.

Sixteen species of parasitic mites of the family Demodecidae have been described in ungulates (Ungulatomorpha), particularly among domestic animals and livestock. Specific synhospital species have been found in seven host species. Demodex bisonianus, occurring in the Meibomian glands of the eyelids, was described in the European bison Bison bonasus. Together with Trypanosoma wrublewskii and Bisonicola sedecimdecembrii, it is one of the three known specific parasite species of European bison. The European bison is not only a rare and endangered mammal, but its biology has been shaped by its recent restitution from extinction from a small pool of individuals kept in breeding facilities. This could have been the reason for the extinction of the majority of specific parasites. The present study reports the finding of a new specific parasite species, Demodex bialoviensis sp. nov., associated with the nasal skin region, in European bison from the Białowieża Forest (Poland). It is the second species of Demodex reported in this host species, however occurring in a different location., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • The European bison is the largest European land mammal; despite its successful restitution, remains highly endangered. • Only three specific parasite species have been known in the European bison, including one mite – Demodex bisonianus. • Currently, another representative of Demodecidae, Demodex bialoviensis sp. nov. has been found in the European bison. • Demodex. bisonianus occurs only in the area of the eyelids, and D. bialoviensis sp. nov. in the nasal skin region.

Background This is the first report describing levels of APPs in European bison. Serum concentration of acute phase proteins (APPs) may be helpful to assess general health status in wildlife and potentially useful in selecting animals for elimination. Since there is a lack of literature data regarding concentration of APPs in European bisons, establishment of the reference values is also needed. Methods A total of 87 European bison from Polish populations were divided into two groups: (1) healthy: immobilized for transportation, placing a telemetry collar and routine diagnostic purposes; and (2) selectively culled due to the poor health condition. The serum concentration of haptoglobin, serum amyloid A and α1-acid-glycoprotein were determined using commercial quantitative ELISA assays. Since none of the variables met the normality assumptions, non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test was used for all comparisons. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistica 13.3 (Tibco, USA). Results The concentration of haptoglobin and serum amyloid A was significantly higher in animals culled (euthanised) due to the poor condition in respect to the clinically healthy European bison. The levels of α1-acid-glycoprotein did not show statistical difference between healthy and sick animals. Conclusions Correlation between APPs concertation and health status was proven, therefore the determination of selected APPs may be considered in future as auxiliary predictive tool in assessing European bison health condition.

European bison are susceptible to a range of pathogens which may influence their health, and hence, to ensure their protection, it is essential to provide effective monitoring of potential exposure. This study presents the first molecular confirmation of Sarcocystis cruzi infection in European bison based on PCR amplification of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene. A sample of heart tissue taken from one fifteen-year-old European bison cow was examined by light microscopy for the presence of heart sarcocysts. The genomic DNA isolated from any identified sarcocysts was subjected to PCR to amplify cox1 gene sequences, and the obtained amplicons were sequenced by Sanger dideoxy sequencing. Two partial cox1 sequences were obtained; they were identified as S. cruzi and deposited in the GenBank™ database under the accession numbers MW490605 and MW490606. BLAST analysis found them to demonstrate the closest similarity to S. levinei (MH255771-MH255779 and KU247874-KU247884), sharing an identity of 93.14–93.8 %. This is the first report to identify sarcocysts isolated from heart tissue of infected European bison living in the Białowieża forest to species level using cox1 analysis. Our findings confirm that the European bison is a natural intermediate host for S. cruzi. As such, coordinators of future conservation programmes should consider the impact of these diseases on reintroduced animals., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • Molecular identification targeting cox1 gene confirmed S. cruzi infection in European bison. • The pathogenic species of Sarcocystis in endangered bison from Białowieża forest. • Bison bonasus as a natural intermediate host for Sarcocystis cruzi.

Funding Information: Research conducted in the frames of the project “Perception of European bison and primeval forest in the 18th-19th century: shared cultural and natural heritage of Poland and Lithuania” (UMO-2017/27/L/HS3/031870) financed by National Science Centre, Poland (https://www. ncn.gov.pl/en) and grant S-LL-18-6 financed by the Research Council of Lithuania (https://www.lmt.lt/ en). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. Authors wish to thank the group of European bison specialists that agreed to evaluate the anatomical accuracy of historical depictions of European bison (prof. dr hab. Małgorzata Krasińska and dr hab. Rafał Kowalczyk from Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences in Białowieża, dr Katarzyna Daleszczyk and dr Zbigniew Krasiński from the Białowieża National Park, and doctor of veterinary medicine Jarosław Tomana from Pszczyna). Publisher Copyright: © 2023 Samojlik et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. Visual media are one of the fastest and most effective tools informing the public about conservation goals and convincing societies to support conservation actions. Similar mechanisms functioned in the past, only within a much longer time scale and different communication channels. We analyse the evolution of European bison’s depictions between 1500 and 1900 in the context of building public awareness of the species and its conservation needs. Experts evaluated the anatomical accuracy of thirty eight images of the species from the period analysed, and their conservation appeal was assessed by using an online survey of the general public. Existing knowledge and previous publications allowed authors to describe the development of the scientific knowledge about European bison in 1500–1900. By juxtaposing this with anatomical accuracy of depictions, a conclusion was reached that the accuracy of depictions was not directly linked to the state of knowledge about the species. In the survey, the public reception of the accuracy of historical pictures of European bison, as well as their potential to be used in conservation campaigns, was connected with subjective appeal of depicted animals. This lesson can be translated to modern conservation campaigns using mass media and global communication channels: popularization of knowledge on species of concern should be accompanied by appealing depictions of these species to strengthen public reception.

In Poland, bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is most often detected in cattle, although some cases have also been reported in pigs and in other non-domestic species. BTB is believed to be mainly present in the Bieszczady region, in the south-eastern part of the country. The present study analyses the practical applications of the law regarding the eradication of tuberculosis among European bison in Poland, as well as the influence of legal rules in species conservation effects. Its aim is to present and evaluate the effectiveness of legal provisions in selected cases of BTB detected in European bison. The analysis highlights key “critical points” in the management of cases of BTB in European bison, which resulted from the problematic interpretation and application of the existing legal provisions. Findings indicate that before the Animal Health Law, the eradication of BTB in European bison in Poland was not regulated clearly enough by the applicable laws in force prior to 2021. This posed a threat to an effective reintroduction strategy for bison based on creating larger metapopulations and maintaining small, isolated reservoir herds (breading centers) for fallback in the case of infectious disease. It should be emphasized that in the current legal system, there is no doubt that a District Veterinary Officer has the competence to prevent and control tuberculosis in European bison.

The purpose of the research is studying the distribution of endoparasitoses in bison in various regions of the Russian Federation.Materials and methods. The endoparasite fauna in bison was studied in 2018–2020 in the FSBI Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Biosphere Reserve (Moscow Region), the Bison Nursery of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences of the Altai Republic, the Bryansk Forest Nature Reserve (Bryansk Region), the Ugra National Park (Kaluga Region), the Vologda Region, and at the Department of Parasitology and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise of the Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology – K. I. Skryabin MVA. We studied feces collected from bison of different sex and age groups near feeders in the runs, and in reserves, nurseries and in the wild. A total of 320 samples were collected and examined including 237 samples from the Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Biosphere Reserve, 15 samples from the Bison Nursery, 18 samples from the Bryansk Forest Nature Reserve, 29 samples from the Ugra National Park and 21 samples from wild bison from the Vologda Region. For helminth-coprological studies, we collected fresh feces of bison from the soil surface. The feces were examined according to generally accepted methods. The sequential washing technique was used to diagnose trematodiases, and the Kotelnikov-Khrenov and Fulleborn flotation methods were used to diagnose cestodoses, nematodoses and eimerioses.Results and discussion. The endoparasite fauna of the European bison was most diverse in the Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Biosphere Reserve, where we identified the parasitizing of two species of trematodes, one genus of cestodes, one species and four genera of nematodes and one genus of protozoa. All these pathogens parasitize both as mono- and mixed infections. One species of trematodes, one genus of nematodes and one genus of protozoa have been identified in the Ugra National Park. One genus and two genera of nematodes were found in the Bison Nursery of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences of the Altai Republic and in the Bryansk Forest Nature Reserve, respectively. The dominant were gastrointestinal strongylatoses.

Background The majority of animal tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in wildlife in Poland over the past 20 years have concerned the European bison inhabiting the Bieszczady Mountains in Southeast Poland: an area running along the border of Southeast Poland. As no TB cases have been reported in domestic animals in this region since 2005, any occurrence of TB in the free-living animals inhabiting this area might pose a real threat to local livestock and result in the loss of disease-free status. The aim of the study was to describe the occurrence of tuberculosis in the wildlife of the Bieszczady Mountains and determine the microbiological and molecular characteristics of any cultured strains. Lymph node samples were collected for analysis from 274 free-living animals, including European bison, red foxes, badgers, red deer, wild boar and roe deer between 2011 and 2017. Löwenstein–Jensen and Stonebrink media were used for culture. Molecular identification of strains was performed based on hsp65 sequence analysis, the GenoType®MTBC (Hain Lifescience, Germany) test, spoligotyping and MIRU-VNTR analysis. Results Mycobacterium caprae was isolated from the lymph nodes of 21 out of 55 wild boar (38.2%; CI 95%: 26.5%, 51.4%) and one roe deer. Since 2014, no new TB cases have been reported in the Bieszczady European bison population. Conclusions The identification of TB in wild boar in the Bieszczady is an alarming phenomenon, which requires further investigation. The Bieszczady mountains are a precious, unique area, home to many protected species. However, it is also the only area in Poland where TB cases have been reported in free-living animals. The occurrence of TB in wild boar inhabiting this area might pose a real threat to local livestock and many of the protected species (for example European bison that can share feeding places with wild boar). Given this situation, ongoing monitoring of the prevalence of TB should be conducted, and protective measures should be considered.

The paper presents data on the assessment of the genetic diversity of five subpopulations of the European bison (Bison bonasus) in Belarus — from the National Park “Belovezhskaya Pushcha”, the National Park “Pripyatsky”, the Osipovichi district (Mogilev area), SEI “Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve” and the Grodno region. In general, the work includes 30 samples of muscle tissue from the collection of Gene bank of wild fauna in SSPA “SPC NAS of Belarus on Bioresources” (Minsk, Belarus). Microsatellites were used as markers to assess genetic diversity, structure, and search for signs of a sharp decline in the size of bison subpopulations in the past. A total of 11 microsatellite markers were used, recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for cattle research. The analysis of B. bonasus subpopulation from the NP “Pripyatsky” showed signs of passing through the genetic bottleneck. All studied subpopulations are characterized by a similarly low genetic diversity level in all analyzed indicators (mean number of alleles, allelic diversity, observed and expected heterozygosity). The expected heterozygosity (He) for the three subpopulations from the NP “Belovezhskaya Pushcha”, the NP “Pripyatsky” and from the Osipovichi district ranged from 0.37 to 0.39. For the studied subpopulations, the values of the fixation index were negative. The assessment of the presence of genetic structuring between the subpopulations of bison from the NP “Belovezhskaya Pushcha”, the NP “Pripyatsky” and from the Osipovichi district based on the values of such indexes as Fst and DJost which showed no signs of genetic differentiation, which is also confirmed by principal coordinates analysis (PCoA). The European bison conservation in Belarus has required tremendous efforts in the past. So far, even though the impressively large population size reached in Belarus, B. bonasus status still should not be considered as stable, which is closely linked to aspects of its overall low genetic diversity. Our research confirmed the low genetic variability of Belarusian subpopulations. Therefore, the more extensive research concentrated on identifying genetic diversity is necessary to ensure the beneficial control of gene flow and register a potential correlation of unfavorable gene variants with possible inbreeding depression. These attempts are required to lay the groundwork for the management and protection of the European bison in Belarus.

Introduction Common parasites of the European bison include gastro-intestinal and pulmonary nematodes, liver flukes (Fasciola hepatica), tapeworms, and protozoa of the genus Coccidia. This study compared the extensiveness and intensities of European bison parasitic invasions in three north-eastern Polish forests in different seasons and queried the role of parasitological monitoring in sanitary and hygienic control of feeding places. Material and Methods Faecal samples were collected in the Białowieża, Knyszyńska, and Borecka Forests between 2014 and 2016, as were some from an area neighbouring the Białowieża Forest outside the Natura 2000 protected area. Parasites were detected in individual samples with the flotation, decanting and Baermann methods. Results The eggs of Trichostrongylidae, Aonchotheca sp., Nematodirus sp., Strongyloides spp., Trichuris sp., Moniezia spp., and Fasciola hepatica; the larvae of Dictyocaulus viviparus; and the oocytes of Eimeria spp. were identified. Significant variation in invasion intensity and diversity was seen by origin and season. The relationships were assessed first by univariable tests and next multivariately, when origin and season emerged as the major risk factors for exposure to most of the parasites. Conclusion The differences in the level of parasitic infection between the forests did not have implications for its sufficiency to cause clinical symptoms. However, the associations and risk factors found enable the necessary preventive measures to be taken to protect the E. bison from exposure or decrease the risks. Additionally, parasitological monitoring is appropriate as the method of sanitary and hygienic control of European bison winter feeding places. Threats to public health through adventitious invasions by zoonotic factors such as F. hepatica have been identified.

As the population size of free-living European bison in Poland has increased significantly over the last few years, conservation and management should be reconsidered to face new challenges, which aim to protect the whole population, not just individuals. The aim of our study was to analyse prevalence and identify risk factors for infections with viruses affecting reproduction (BVDV, BoHV-1, and BoHV-4), causing respiratory diseases (BRV3, BAdV-3, and BRSV), and emerging vector-borne viruses (BTV and SBV). Over 600 serum samples used in serology and 270 lung tissue samples, and 284 nasal swabs used in virological tests were collected from 24 free-living and captive European bison herds between 2016 and 2023. The seroprevalences varied between low (0.3–6.1% for BVDV, BoHV-1, and BoHV-4), medium (15.9% for BRSV and 22.1% for BTV) and high (43.3% for BRV3, 59.5% for BAdV-3, and 69.5% for SBV). Interspecies’ and intraspecies’ risk of endemic viral infections was observed to be density-dependent, while the effect of anthropogenic factors on the spread of infections in free-living European bison has not been demonstrated. BTV is no longer circulating, while SBV has become endemic. The higher exposure to viruses in the European bison eliminated on the basis of a veterinary decision indicates the importance of an expert supervision for disease control and prevention.

The pedigree data for European bison are published in the European Bison Pedigree Book, established one hundred years ago. The species passed a serious bottleneck and was kept in captivity for more than 30 years. After reintroduction, some individuals were captured and moved to enclosures, which caused gaps in pedigree data. To prevent the underestimation of inbreeding value, only animals with a fully known pedigree were used in the analysis. European bison were divided into two genetic lines, Lowland-Caucasian (LC) and Lowland (LB), with different numbers of founders (all 12 vs. 7 of them). The relation between inbreeding and survival up to one month of age, calculated using logistic regression, gave different results for every genetic line. In the LC line (N = 5441), the average inbreeding level was equal to 0.253 and the influence into survival was negative (exp(B) = 0.190), but in the LB line (N = 1227), the inbreeding level was much higher (0.410) but the influence into survival was positive (exp(B) = 6.596). It could be assumed that the difference between lines is a result of purging in the first period of species restitution.

Chemical immobilization of captive European bison (Bison bonasus) is often required for veterinary care, transport, or husbandry practices playing an important role in the reintroduction and preservation of the species. To help preventing unexpected events and reduce its negative impact we documented the efficiency and physiological effects of a combination of etorphine-acepromazine-xylazine for European bison immobilization and the benefit of oxygen therapy. Thirty-nine captive European bison were ground-darted with a combination of 1.5 mg of etorphine hydrochloride, 6.1 mg of acepromazine maleate and 20 mg xylazine hydrochloride for 100 kg of estimated weight. Arterial blood was sampled on average 20 minutes after recumbency and again 15 minutes later and immediately analyzed with a portable analyzer. At the same time heart rate, respiratory rate and rectal temperature were recorded. After the first sample we delivered oxygen intranasally at a flow rate of 1L per 100 kg of estimated weight until the end of the procedure. Before oxygen therapy the mean PaO2 was 46.7 mmHg with 32 out of 33 sampled bison presenting hypoxemia. We also observed lowered values of respiratory rate, decreased pH, and mild hypercapnia consistent with the development of a mild respiratory acidosis. Oxygen therapy allowed the resolution of hypoxemia in 22 out of 32 bison but also accentuated the respiratory acidosis. Bison immobilized with higher initial dose did not require reinjection during the procedure. Additionally, we observed that lower mean rectal temperatures during the immobilization event was significantly associated with longer recovery times. For three bison presence of ruminal fluid was noticed in the mouth and nose, causing a risk for aspiration. No mortality related to the immobilizations were reported for at least two months following the procedure. In conclusion, a combination of 0.016 mg.kg-1 etorphine hydrochloride, 0.065 mg.kg-1 acepromazine maleate and 0.22 mg.kg-1 xylazine hydrochloride provides a sufficient level of immobilization for diverse common management and husbandry procedures in captive European bison. Although, it is associated with development of marked hypoxemia, a small risk of regurgitation and mild respiratory acidosis. We recommend implementing oxygen supplementation when using this protocol.

A survey of the birth and mortality of European Bison (Bison bonasus bonasus L1758) conducted from 2000 to 2018 in two nurseries showed that the females in the first study group had the first mating at an average age of 42.54 months, with an interval from 23 to 84.5 months. The average age of the first mated females in the second study group was 31.67 months, with an interval from 39.5 to 66.93 months. The average time between calving for the first group females was 9.95 months, with an interval from 0.5 to 28.5 months. The calving interval for the second group was 8.53 months with variation from 1 to 32 months. The first group had a maximum of seven calves, while the maximum in the second group was 13.A total of 33 calves were born in the first group during the study period, 16 males (48.48%) and 17 females (51.51%), while 40 calves were born in the second group,16 males (40.0%) and 24 females (60.0%).The mortality rate in the first group ranged between 14.3 and 30.0%, with a mortality rate of males of 20 to 60% and for females of 16.66 to 50%. In the second group, the mortality rate was from 9.09 to 23.08%, for males 33.33% and from 11.11 to 25.0% for females. The results indicate that future studies should address greater attention to birth and mortality rates., Prateći natalitet i mortalitet, u dva stada, u razdoblju 2000.-2018., europskog bizona (Bison bonasus bonasus L. 1758) ustvrđeno je da se prvoj oglednoj skupini prvo parenje krava događa, u prosjeku, s uzrastom od 42,54 mjeseca, uz interval variranja od 23 do 84,5 mjeseci. U drugoj oglednoj skupini uzrast ženskih grla pri prvom parenju bila je prosječno, 31,67 mjeseci s intervalom variranja od 39,5 do 66,93 mjeseci. Međutelidbeni interval u ženskih grla u prvoj skupini bio je, prosječno, 9,95 mjeseci s intervalom 0,5-28,5 mjeseci. U drugoj skupini ovaj je interval prosječno iznosio 8,53 mjeseca uz variranje od 1-32 mjeseca. Kada je riječ o broju teljenja ustvrđeno je da je u prvoj skupini, maksimalan broj teljenja bio 7, a u drugoj skupini 13. Kada je riječ o odnosu spolova oteljene teladi u prvoj je skupini za promatrano razdoblje, oteljeno 33 teleta, 16 muških (48,48 %) i 17 ženskih (51,51%). U drugoj skupini oteljeno je 40 - 16 muških (40,0 %) i 24 ženska (60,0 %) teleta. Mortalitet grla, u promatranom razdoblju, u prvoj skupini kretao se od 14,29 % do 30,0 %. Promatrano po spolovima muških grla se kretalo u granicama od 20,0 % do 60,0 %, a u ženskih grla od 16,66 % do 50,0 %. U drugoj promatranoj skupini mortalitet se kretao u granicama od 9,09 % do 23,08 %. Smrtnost muških grla je bila 33,33 %, a ženskih od 11,11 % do 25,0%.Na osnovu analize dobivenih rezultata jasno je da se proučavanju nataliteta i mortaliteta u populaciji europskih bizona mora pristupiti organiziranije i temeljitije.

Two native European large herbivores: the aurochs Bos primigenius Bojanus, 1827 and the wisent Bison bonasus Linnaeus, 1758 lived simultaneously until the end of the Medieval period. Between the 15th and beginning of the 17th century, however, the aurochs population declined rapidly, while wisents continued to live in the wild until the end of World War I. In western Europe, both aurochs and wisents went extinct much earlier than in the east, so by the 16th century the two species were commonly confused, as illustrated by a drawing from 1571, showing the differences in appearance, and providing proper nomenclature for both species. The extinction of aurochs took place despite their strict protection and even supplementary feeding imposed by Polish kings. Since in central and eastern Europe there is a number of traditional geographical names associated with both species, we made an attempt to determine their distribution in four areas of eastern Europe (Poland, Lithuania, Romania + Moldova, and Ukraine), and by comparing historical changes in land cover, identify possible reasons for such a substantial difference in their survival. Numbers of geographical names were much higher for the aurochs than for the wisent: >5−fold in Poland and >4−fold in Ukraine, indicating much greater recognition of the aurochs by the human population. The suggestion is either that aurochs were more abundant, or were more frequently present in open areas. Between 1000 and 1400 (when in Poland and Lithuania hunts for the aurochs by the kings of the Jagiellonian dynasty were organised only occasionally), there was a drastic decline in forest cover, estimated at almost 50% in Poland, nearly 40% in Lithuania, and almost 30% in Ukraine. This deforestation was associated with the development of agriculture and settlements, which resulted in much greater areas of open land with attractive forage for herbivores. Therefore, the most probable factor for differences in the survival of the two species, we suggest, was preference by aurochs for open landscapes, making them more conspicuous, leading to more frequent encounters with people and conflicts with cattle breeders and farmers. This case indicates the critical importance of socio−economic circumstances for the survival of endangered species, despite strict protection., Sylwan 166 (7): 462-469

Background The European bison is an endangered species, and as such it is extremely important to monitor herds for pathogens which can lead to reproductive failure. The aim of the present study was to determine the current prevalence of antibodies to pathogens known to potentially influence reproduction in European bison. Serum samples from 183 bison, originating from different parts of Poland, were tested using commercial ELISA tests for antibodies to Chlamydia spp., Coxiella burnetti, Leptospira interrogans, Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii; the findings were compared between captive and main free-ranging herds, and with regard to the influence of demographic factors such as age and sex. The prevalence of seropositivity was also checked with regard to location and the animal species sharing it. Results Chlamydia spp. antibodies were present in 48 out of 130 (36.9%) tested samples. Coxiella burnetii was found in one sample out of 178 (0.58%). N. caninum in 36 out of 172 (20.9%) and T. gondii in 23 out of 172 (13.4%). No sample was positive for leptospirosis. Neither sex nor age appeared to have a significant effect on the occurrence of antibodies to the identified species. The prevalence of Chlamydia spp. in the samples varied significantly according to location; however, similar frequency ranges were observed between free ranging and captive herds. In contrast, antibodies to N. caninum were more common in free-ranging herds than captive herds, with the highest frequency observed in the Bieszczady Mountains. Conclusions Chlamydia spp., N. caninum and T. gondii might have a similar impact on the reproductive potential of European bison as they have on cattle. The high occurrence of antibodies to N. caninum in bison from the Bieszczady Mountains may be associated with the relatively high density of the wolf population in the area.

Proper management and genetic monitoring of the modern European bison (Bison bonasus) population is one of the most important responsibilities for this species’ conservation. Up-to-date, complex genetic analysis performed using a consistent molecular method is needed for population management as a tool to further validate and maintain the genetic diversity of the species. The identification of the genetic line when pedigree data are missing, as well as the identification of parentage and individuals, are crucial for this purpose. The aim of our research was to create a small but informative panel of SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism) markers that can be used for routine genotyping of the European bison at low cost. In our study, we used a custom-designed microarray to genotype a large number of European bison, totaling 455 samples from two genetic lines. The results of this analysis allowed us to select highly informative markers. In this paper, we present an effective single nucleotide polymorphism set, divided into separate panels to perform genetic analyses of European bison, which is needed for population monitoring and management. We proposed a total of 20 SNPs to detect hybridization with Bos taurus and Bison bison, a panel of 50 SNPs for individuals and parentage identification, as well as a panel of 30 SNPs for assessing membership of the genetic line. These panels can be used together or independently depending on the research goal and can be applied using various methods.

The first scientific description of the flora of the Białowieża Primeval Forest (Puszcza Białowieska) was published in 1829 in Stanisław Batys Gorski’s paper “O roślinach żubrom upodobanych, jakoteż innych w puszczy Białowiezkiey [About preferred plants of the European bison and other plants from the Białowieża Primeval Forest]”. This publication comprised the first critical evaluation of the plant species present in the forest based on several field surveys during 1822, 1823 and 1826 by Gorski, and it dismissed the popular hypothesis that the European bison ( Bison bonasus) survived there because some of its preferred forage plants were exclusively found in the forest. To assess the importance of Gorski’s contribution to studies on the flora of the Białowieża Primeval Forest, we critically evaluated all his materials on the topic, including manuscripts, plant specimens collected by Gorski now preserved in Vilnius University Herbarium and his published works, and also traced all mentions and references to Gorski’s studies in later botanical works devoted to the Białowieża Primeval Forest.

Large herbivores and carnivores today often only occupy small fractions of their former ranges, and restoring them is a conservation priority. Reintroductions may serve two critical goals in this context: (1) to expand and connect existing populations, or (2) to increase the number of separate populations as insurance in case individual populations are lost, for example, to disease. We developed an approach to identify reintroduction sites for both purposes, using an applied example of European bison or wisent (Bison bonasus) in Poland. Using a large occurrence dataset from all extant herds in Poland, we mapped suitable wisent habitats throughout Poland using a species distribution modelling approach. We identified 47 patches of suitable habitat, together covering 20,710 km2, and used graph theory tools to identify the top candidate reintroduction sites for (1) connecting existing herds into larger metapopulations or (2) establishing ‘reservoir’ herds that could serve as a backup in case of mass die‐offs. The most well‐connected habitat patches ranged between 203 and 728 km2 and occurred mainly in north‐western and south‐eastern Poland, in close vicinity to other free‐ranging herds. In contrast, candidate sites for reservoir herds were smaller (204–410 km2) and occurred mainly in central Poland. Our approach provides a possible blueprint for wisent reintroductions in Poland. More broadly, our work also highlights how jointly planning for multiple conservation goals for wide‐ranging species that depend on reintroductions or translocations can be achieved at the regional scale.

Background Our recent macro- and scanning electron microscopic study of tongue conducted on domesticated cattle, wild living European bison, and Bison bonasus hybrid revealed various spatial arrangement and number of gustatory and mechanical papillae between parental species and their hybrid. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy analysis of gustatory papillae indicated the variable distribution of fungiform papillae (Fu) over the surface of the tongue, which could be significant in differentiated taste perception during feeding in studied wild living and domesticated husbandry ruminants. To specify the detailed microstructure of Fu papillae with connective tissue cores (CTC) and intraepithelial taste buds system, the first time the three-dimensional computer-aided analysis of serial histoslides resulted in the rendering of 3D reconstructions of Fu papillae. Results The comparative analysis of 3D models Fu papillae conducted in six areas of lingual mucosa of each tongue revealed information about, microstructural diversity of Fu papillae in studied ruminants. The estimation of number and density of Fu papillae on tongues, rate of protrusion of papillae over mucosa, and a number of taste buds per papilla allowed to state the ventral surface of the lingual apex and posterolateral surfaces of the lingual torus as regions important in taste perception, as in the preselection of taken food, as well in the analysis of food during rumination, respectively. On the 3D models were observed three structural types of CTC of different distribution on the tongue in studied species. The quantitative data of the number of taste buds on Fu papillae have regional functional differences in the taste system important in feeding and veterinary practice. Moreover, our analysis determined specific features in examined hybrid and showed similarities of some studied features with cattle, i.e., maternal species. Conclusions The 3D reconstruction method used for the first time in the field of study of the lingual papillae and taste buds system can be considered as an innovative and effective tool in assessing of the microstructures of Fu papillae, and it could be suitable for further studies of taste system structures in normal and pathological condition.

The ability to solve novel problems is crucial for individual fitness. However, studies on problem solving are usually done on few taxa, with species with low encephalization quotient being rarely tested. Here, we aimed to study problem solving in a non-domesticated ungulate species, European bison, with two experimental tasks. In the first task, five individuals were presented with a hanging barrel filled with food, which could either be directly accessed (control condition) or which could only be reached by pushing a tree stump in the enclosure below it and stepping on it (experimental condition). In the second task, five individuals were repeatedly fed by an experimenter using a novel bucket to retrieve food from a bag. Then, three identical buckets were placed in the enclosure, while the experimenter waited outside with the bag without feeding the bison, either with a bucket (control condition) or without it (experimental condition). In the first task, no bison moved the stump behind the barrel and/or stepped on it to reach the food. In the second task, two individuals solved the task by pushing the bucket within the experimenter's reach, twice in the experimental and twice in the control condition. We suggest that bison showed a limited ability to solve novel problems, and discuss the implications for their understanding of the functional aspects of the tasks.

The ability to solve novel problems is crucial for individual fitness. However, studies on problem solving are usually done on few taxa, with species with low encephalization quotient being rarely tested. Here, we aimed to study problem solving in a non-domesticated ungulate species, European bison, with two experimental tasks. In the first task, five individuals were presented with a hanging barrel filled with food, which could either be directly accessed (control condition) or which could only be reached by pushing a tree stump in the enclosure below it and stepping on it (experimental condition). In the second task, five individuals were repeatedly fed by an experimenter using a novel bucket to retrieve food from a bag. Then, three identical buckets were placed in the enclosure, while the experimenter waited outside with the bag without feeding the bison, either with a bucket (control condition) or without it (experimental condition). In the first task, no bison moved the stump behind the barrel and/or stepped on it to reach the food. In the second task, two individuals solved the task by pushing the bucket within the experimenter's reach, twice in the experimental and twice in the control condition. We suggest that bison showed a limited ability to solve novel problems, and discuss the implications for their understanding of the functional aspects of the tasks.

Highlights • First ante mortem tuberculous abnormalities demonstrated in European bison. • Bronchoscopy may be used for tuberculosis diagnostics in European bison. • Bronchoscopy is better for assessing tuberculosis severity than for diagnosis., The European bison (Bison bonasus, EB) is an endangered species, and as about 1/3 of its global population is found in Poland, it is particularly important that Polish herds should be monitored. One particular concern is tuberculosis, which is not a marginal problem in wildlife in Poland, and has been microbiologically confirmed in EB, wolves (Canis lupus) and wild boar (Sus scrofa). However, ante mortem diagnosis of tuberculosis in EB is troublesome. Therefore, the present paper evaluates the potential of bronchoscopy as a diagnostic tool. Seven EB were studied, four of which were found to be naturally infected with M. caprae; in two of these, endoscopy identified abnormalities in the respiratory tract ante mortem. Therefore, despite some limitations, endoscopy can be an additional tool for diagnosing tuberculosis in EB, especially in highly valuable animals, and to assess the stage of the disease.

Simple Summary Q fever is one of the important diseases transmissible from animals to humans. The source of infection can be numerous species of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians as well as ticks. The role of wildlife in its epidemiology is poorly understood. Therefore, we examined 523 sera samples obtained from European bison for the presence of specific antibodies to assess whether infection occurs in this species and whether European bison may be an important source of infection in the natural environment as suggested by historical reports. The antibodies were found only in one free-living bull, while two other samples were doubtful. The results suggest the transmission of infection to the European bison was rather accidental and its role as an important source of infection nowadays is unlikely. Abstract Q fever is an important zoonosis caused by the intracellular Gram-negative bacteria Coxiella burnetii. The source of infection are numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, as well as ticks. The disease is widespread throughout Europe, but the role of wildlife in its epidemiology is poorly understood. The European bison (Bison bonasus) population has been growing European-wide quite dynamically over the last few years. The aim of this study was to determine whether C. burnetii infection occurs in European bison and whether it can be considered an important bacterial reservoir in the natural environment. Five hundred and twenty three samples of European bison sera originating from 14 (out of the 26 existing) Polish populations were examined for the presence of specific antibodies using an ID Screen Q Fever Indirect Multi-species ELISA test. Only one (0.19%) serum sample was positive in ELISA, and two other samples were doubtful. The only seropositive animal found in this study was a free-living bull. It suggests possible transmission from domestic cattle by sharing pastures. The transmission of C. burnetii into the European bison was rather accidental in the country and its role as an important wild reservoir is unlikely. Since no tests are available for wildlife ruminants there is a need for the adaptation of the available tests.

Simple Summary The study aimed to compare the attitudes to European bison of local village inhabitants in Bieszczady and city dwellers in Rzeszów. Our study showed that not only does the growing European bison population cause an increase in negative attitudes among local village communities, but this species also causes more conflict than any other herbivore in the Bieszczady Mountains. Village residents believed that the main threats that arise from the European bison were from the damage they cause and forest use limitations. The current compensation system for the damage caused by this species does not solve this problem, because over 60% of damage is not effectively reported to the state administration. The city dwellers of Rzeszów displayed a different attitude towards the European bison. We concluded that while educational workshops for local villagers may alleviate conflict in the short term, ultimately it is only by restricting the growth of the European bison population that a long-term effect will be achieved. Abstract An important limitation for the population growth of European bison in the Bieszczady Mountains may be the level of social acceptance. The study aimed to compare attitudes to European bison of local village inhabitants in Bieszczady and city dwellers in Rzeszów. We also investigated whether damage caused by European bison or other wild species changes peoples’ perceptions of this animal. Our study showed that not only does the growing European bison population cause an increase in negative attitudes among local village communities, but this species also causes more conflict than any other herbivore in the Bieszczady Mountains. Village residents believed that the main threats that arise from European bison were the damage they cause and forest use limitations. The current compensation system for the damage caused by this species does not solve the problem because over 60% of damage is not effectively reported to the state administration. The city dwellers of Rzeszów displayed a different attitude towards the European bison. We concluded that while educational workshops for local villagers may alleviate conflict in the short-term, ultimately it is only by restricting the growth of the European bison population that a long-term effect will be achieved.

Trueperella pyogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium causing purulent infections in many animal species, including the European bison. However, the data about the virulence and genetic relationships of T. pyogenes strains isolated from these wild ruminants are strongly limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of T. pyogenes infections in the European bison, and to evaluate the genetic diversity of isolates from these animals. In the time span of 10 years, 328 European bison from 16 different locations were examined. The standard bacteriological methods were used for T. pyogenes isolation and identification from clinical specimens obtained from urogenital tract infections and abscesses of different locations. The presence of genes encoding known virulence factors was investigated by PCR, and the genetic diversity of T. pyogenes strains was examined with the RAPD-PCR method. The prevalence of T. pyogenes infections was 14.6%, and the pathogen was isolated from both female (47.9% of isolates) and male (52.1% of isolates) European bison. It should be highlighted that a considerable number of strains were isolated from the prepuce and penis infections. Therefore, the role of T. pyogenes in the pathogenesis of balanoposthitis should be seriously perceived. A total of 39 T. pyogenes strains were subjected to genetic characterization. All studied strains carried the plo gene, while the nanH (25.6%), nanP (23.1%), cbpA (7.7%), fimA (97.4%), fimC (69.2%), fimE (92.3%) and fimG (15.4%) genes were present with a variable frequency among the tested strains. The virulence genotype plo/fimA/fimC/fimE was dominant. RAPD-PCR typing showed a high level of genetic diversity among European bison T. pyogenes strains, and a total of 31 different RAPD profiles were distinguished. In a few cases, the same RAPD profile was found in strains obtained from animals living in the same area. This study provided the first data about the prevalence and genetic relationships of T. pyogenes in the Polish population of European bison. However, further epidemiological investigations are needed to understand the routes of transmission and dissemination of the pathogen in these wild animals.

We analysed the possibility of reintroducing the European bison (Bison bonasus L.) in the north of Romania—in Suceava, Neamț, and Maramureș counties—as well as increasing the wild European bison population in Neamț county to improve the genetic quality of the existing population. Currently, there is a population of over 50 individuals in the wild in Vânători Neamț Natural Park, Romania. At the same time, an attempt was made to identify the connecting corridors between the free European bison in Neamț county and other populations through new nuclei of European bison released in Suceava and Maramureș counties. In this regard, the hunting grounds with the highest ecological potential for the analysed species were identified using GIS spatial analysis techniques. The aim was also to trace possible ecological corridors linking different reintroduction locations, taking into account the ecological claims of the species. The analysis also followed the size of the European bison groups to be released, the sex ratio of each group, and the periodicity of their releasing. In order to reach viable populations, scenarios and simulations were carried out depending on the age, number, and sex of the relocated specimens. In this regard, the dynamics and the minimum viable population that could survive without risk of extinction were highlighted. The analysis showed that the analysed area has a high potential for the reintroduction of European bison in the wild. The release and creation of new European bison nuclei in the wild creates the premises for natural contacts with the existing free populations in the wild, genetic improvement, and increasing fauna diversity with ecological, social, and economic implications.

The wisent, or European bison (Bison bonasus), belongs to the same family (Bovidae) as the American bison and domestic cattle. The wisent is the largest mammal in Europe, and is called the “Forest Emperor”. The wisent is listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, and is protected by international law. Achievements in reproductive biotechnology have opened new possibilities for the cryoconservation of the wisent germplasm. Therefore, this research aimed to improve a strategy for the protection and preservation of the European bison through the creation of a wisent germplasm bank, based on the following procedures: isolation and in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes, in vitro fertilization (IVF) of matured oocytes, in vitro embryo culture (IVC), and embryo cryopreservation. Wisent ovaries were isolated from females outside the reproductive season, and eliminated from breeding for reasons other than infertility. Cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) were isolated from follicles greater than 2 mm in diameter and matured for 24 h and 30 h. After IVM, COCs were fertilized in vitro with wisent sperm. The obtained wisent zygotes, based on oocytes matured for 24 h and 30 h, were cultured for 216 h. Embryos at the morula and early blastocyst stages were vitrified and then warmed and transferred to interspecies recipients (Bos taurus). USG and biochemical tests were used to monitor pregnancies. This study obtained embryos in the morula and early blastocyst stages only after oocytes were fertilized and matured for 30 h. On average, per oocyte donor, 12.33 ± 0.5 COCs were isolated, and only 9.33 ± 0.61 COCs were qualified for in vitro maturation (75.68%), while 9.16 ± 0.48 COCs were matured (84.32%). On average, per donor, 5.5 ± 0.34 embryos were cleaved (59.96%) after 48 h post-fertilization (hpf), and 3.33 ± 0.21 achieved the eight-cell stage (36.52%) after 96 hpf, while 1 ± 0.21 morula and early blastocyst stages (10.71%) were achieved after 216 hpf. A total of six embryos (one morula and five early blastocysts) were obtained and vitrified; after warming, five of them were interspecies transferred to cattle (Bos taurus). On day 41 after fertilization, 3 out of 5 pregnancies were detected based on USG, P4, and PAG tests. However, no pregnancy was observed on day 86 after fertilization, indicating embryo resorption. This study shows that obtaining wisent embryos in vitro, and subsequent cryopreservation to create a wisent embryo bank, can be applied and implemented for the wisent protection program.

Presence records of wisents Bison bonasus belonging to the western subpopulation of this species in the Bieszczady Mountains (SE Poland) were used for the analysis of their habitat preferences. This population inhabits the area of four forest districts, outside of strictly protected area of the Bieszczadzki National Park. Wisents were recorded there within the whole elevation range of this area i.e. 310−1066 m a.s.l. During years 2001−2016, population size increased from 140 to 344 individuals. However in the period between 2010 and 2013, a decline from 299 to 256 individuals was observed. The area of population home range fluctuated between 188 and 504 km. Similar tendency was observed for the area assumed as truly utilized by wisents i.e. kernel 95%. Although the analysed population density within its home range generally increased together with the number of individuals this relation was not strong. Within the home range of this population, the fraction of the open areas was by some 20% higher, than within the whole accessible area in four investigated forest districts. Nevertheless, only about 8% of records of wisents presence were found outside of the forest. This indicates a very strong preference of wisents towards forested areas despite regular management activities being carried out by the foresters there. That also confirms the suitability of habitats commercially managed by the State Forests for the further development of free ranging wisent population in Poland., Sylwan 165 (1): 41-49

The Amazing European Bison Journey prototype clip shows an extract of the timeline of this species coming back from their near disappearance. It starts in the Białowieża Forest in Poland in 1919, when they went extinct in the wild. And runs up to 2013 in Zuid-Kennemerland in the Nether-lands, where an initial herd of 6 European bison, translocated in 2007 from Poland, had quadrupled to 24 individuals living in the Dutch dunes. The process of production of this animated documentary is de-scribed starting with the ecological research required. Review of literature, contact with specialist scientists and visitation of Poland and the Netherlands are some of the starting points of the process. Subsequently, the preparation for the animation is described. The initial storyboard was constructed out of the preceding ecological research. Afterwards, the development of the script and its respective narration was recorded. The construction of the sets, props and characters is described; specific emphasis is given to the construction of the European bison. Finally, the assemblage of all the elements is explained and the final results of the animation prototype are revealed. This animation forms part of a broader project, which has research into the effectiveness of a set of visual communication formats at its core, and uses rewilding as its ecological platform. A range of animations, infographics and virtual reality pieces will be eventually compared for their effectiveness using several communication research tools.

The Amazing European Bison Journey prototype clip shows an extract of the timeline of this species coming back from their near disappearance. It starts in the Białowieża Forest in Poland in 1919, when they went extinct in the wild. And runs up to 2013 in Zuid-Kennemerland in the Nether-lands, where an initial herd of 6 European bison, translocated in 2007 from Poland, had quadrupled to 24 individuals living in the Dutch dunes. The process of production of this animated documentary is de-scribed starting with the ecological research required. Review of literature, contact with specialist scientists and visitation of Poland and the Netherlands are some of the starting points of the process. Subsequently, the preparation for the animation is described. The initial storyboard was constructed out of the preceding ecological research. Afterwards, the development of the script and its respective narration was recorded. The construction of the sets, props and characters is described; specific emphasis is given to the construction of the European bison. Finally, the assemblage of all the elements is explained and the final results of the animation prototype are revealed. This animation forms part of a broader project, which has research into the effectiveness of a set of visual communication formats at its core, and uses rewilding as its ecological platform. A range of animations, infographics and virtual reality pieces will be eventually compared for their effectiveness using several communication research tools.

Simple Summary In this study, additional methods of collecting material for bovine tuberculosis diagnosis in living European bison were introduced. We showed a potential usage of tracheobronchial aspirates and ultrasound-guided biopsies from lateral retropharyngeal lymph nodes in living animals for diagnostics. We confirmed that the isolation of Mycobacterium caprae in living European bison is possible, as is the respiratory shedding of viable M. caprae in this host. This study is important as tuberculosis is a real threat for European bison which is an endangered species and the improvement of diagnostics can help with better health monitoring and further restitution. Abstract The diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) in living wildlife remains a complex problem, and one of particular importance in endangered species like European bison (Bison bonasus). To identify infection and avoid the unnecessary culling of such valuable individuals, current best practice requires the collection and culture of material from living animals, as mycobacteria isolation remains the gold standard in BTB diagnosis. However, such isolation is challenging due to the need for the immobilization and collection of appropriate clinical material, and because of the sporadic shedding of mycobacteria. In the present study, we evaluated the potential of sampling for the detection of BTB in a group of seven living European bison suspected of being infected with Mycobacterium caprae. The specimens were collected both as swabs from the nasal and pharyngeal cavities, tracheobronchial aspirates (TBA), ultrasound-guided biopsies from lateral retropharyngeal lymph nodes, and post mortem, from mandibular, retropharyngeal and mediastinal lymph nodes. Clinical samples were tested for mycobacterial species via mycobacteriological culture and PCR. M. caprae was isolated from collected material in two out of four living infected individuals (TBA, biopsy) and mycobacterial DNA was detected in three out of four (TBA, pharyngeal swab) bison. This is the first report of isolation of M. caprae in living European bison. Our findings demonstrate the value of diagnostic tests based on both molecular testing and culture in European bison and confirm the respiratory shedding of viable M. caprae in this host species.

V Evropi človek že stoletja intenzivno spreminja pokrajino in vse bolj vpliva na ohranitveno stanje prostoživečih vrst. Mnoge evropske vrste so iz narave že izumrle, med njimi tudi evropski bizon ali zober. Vrsta je bila uspešno ponovno naseljena v številne države z obsežnimi ohranjenimi gozdnimi habitati. V Sloveniji imamo obsežne sklenjene površine gozdnih habitatov, ki ustrezajo zobrovim življenjskim pogojem. Glavni namen magistrske naloge je ugotoviti obseg in povezanost primernega prostora za zobra v primeru njegove ponovne naselitve v Sloveniji. S pomočjo modeliranja zobrove ekološke niše v programskem orodju Maxent smo napovedali potencialno primeren prostor na območju Slovenije. Izvedli smo modeliranje letnega in zimskega primernega habitata v primeru odsotnosti in prisotnosti človeka ter tako dobili rezultate za 8 različnih modelov. Najzanesljivejši rezultat smo dobili z modelom letnega primernega prostora ob prisotnosti človeka. Kot glavna območja primernega prostora so se izkazali Nanos in Hrušica, Trnovski gozd in Banjšice, Javorniki in Snežnik ter Kočevsko in Ribniško hribovje. Ta območja so med seboj nekoliko oddaljena in ločena z linijskimi objekti prometne infrastrukture. Za uspešno ponovno naselitev in prehajanje čred med območji primernega prostora bi bila potrebna vzpostavitev učinkovitih omilitvenih in upravljavskih ukrepov. Uporabljena metoda je primerna za tovrstno modeliranje, saj so napovedi modela kljub pomanjkljivim vhodnim podatkom zadovoljive. Za izboljšanje rezultatov priporočamo uporabo kakovostnejših vhodnih podatkov ter uporabo dodatne metode za primerjavo rezultatov. Poleg tega priporočamo vrednotenje dobljenega primernega prostora iz vidika drugih prostoživečih vrst, ki živijo na območju. For centuries, humans have been intensively using the landscapes in Europe, thus affecting the conservation status of several wildlife species. Many European species have already become extinct, including the European bison (Bison bonasus). The species has been successfully reintroduced to many European countries with extensive conserved forest habitats. Such extensive connected areas of forest habitats, suitable for the European bison, are also found in Slovenia. The main objective of the Master's thesis was to identify the size and connectedness of a suitable habitat in case of the European bison’s reintroduction. With habitat suitability modelling in Maxent, we predicted a potential suitable habitat in Slovenia. We performed the modelling of suitable summer and winter habitats with and without human-induced changes, thus producing eight different models. The model of a suitable summer habitat with human presence yielded the most reliable result. According to this model, the most suitable habitat is in the area of Nanos and Hrušica, Trnovski gozd and Banjšice, Javorniki and Snežnik, as well as the hills of Ribnica and Kočevje. The patches of a suitable habitat are not well connected to each other and are mainly separated by traffic infrastructure. The implementation of efficient mitigation measures and species management would be necessary for successful reintroduction and herd migration between habitat patches. Habitat suitability modelling with Maxent yields satisfactory predictions despite insufficient input data. To improve the results, we recommend using better input data and another method for result comparison. Besides, we recommend assessing the results from the aspect of other wildlife species living in the area.

After extinction in the wild in the beginning of the 20th century, the European bison has been successfully recovered in 2 distinct genetic lines from only 12 and 7 captive founders. We here aimed at characterizing the levels of realized inbreeding in these 2 restored lines to provide empirical insights into the genomic footprints left by population recovery from a small number of founders. To that end, we genotyped 183 European bison born over the last 40 years with the Illumina BovineHD beadchip that contained 22 602 informative autosomal single-nucleotide polymorphisms after data filtering. We then identified homozygous-by-descent (HBD) segments and classified them into different age-related classes relying on a model-based approach. As expected, we observed that the strong and recent founder effect experienced by the 2 lines resulted in very high levels of recent inbreeding and in the presence of long HBD tracks (up to 120 Mb). These long HBD tracks were associated with ancestors living approximately from 4 to 32 generations in the past, suggesting that inbreeding accumulated over multiple generations after the bottleneck. The contribution to inbreeding of the most recent groups of ancestors was however found to be decreasing in both lines. In addition, comparison of Lowland individuals born at different time periods showed that the levels of inbreeding tended to stabilize, HBD segments being shorter in animals born more recently which indicates efficient control of inbreeding. Monitoring HBD segment lengths over generations may thus be viewed as a valuable genomic diagnostic tool for populations in conservation or recovery programs.

Nowadays, in the era of automation of ecological measurements, more and more often we are dealing with large data sets in which various unexpected anomalies may occur. Their detection is often crucial for a proper assessment of ecological trends and processes. Therefore, methods allowing for identification of anomalous data are especially important for a deep understanding of ecological phenomena and their relationships in practical domains. In this study, we present an innovative application of information granules to the in-depth study of spatial behavior of the European bison (Bison bonasus), based on GPS data. As evidenced by a series of numerical experiments, this granular computing-based approach allows to detect both anomalies and regularities in the atypical behavior of the European bison, a species important for local ecosystems. The transformation of the original data space into a new semantic multidimensional space, defining the degree of membership in the anomaly class represented by new descriptors allows for more unambiguous analysis of non-standard animal behavior.

The study was performed on a male European bison (Bison bonasus bonasus L.) foetus spontaneously aborted at the fourth or fifth month of pregnancy in the Bialowieza Forest. Serum samples from the foetus and mother revealed the presence of antibodies against T. gondii (S/P% = 88% and 75%, respectively). Mobile extracellular tachyzoites were first observed in a Vero cell culture, 110 days following inoculation of brain homogenate. PCR amplification with TGR1E1 and TGR1E2 primers confirmed the presence of T. gondii DNA, which was classified as Type I by PCR-RFLP genotyping. The sequences of 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) and 5.8S ribosomal RNA (5.8S rRNA) genes; internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2), obtained from T. gondii isolate, have been deposited in GenBank (accession number KX459518.1). This is the first in vitro isolation and molecular identification of T. gondii from an aborted European bison foetus. The origin of this protozoan isolate indicates that the species is a significant threat to the European bison conservation program implemented in the Bialowieza Forest.

Summary: Background. The European bison (Bison bonasus) is the only wild ox of Europe, survived to our days. Whilst numerous stu dies have been undertaken to characterize the Lowland line of European bison, it is little known about allele pool and population genetic structure of the Lowland-Caucasian line of wisent. Materials and methods. The samples were collected from twenty-six animals of Russian breeding nucleus of Lowland-Caucasian line. Ten Bos Taurus microsatellites (TGLA227, BM2113, ETH10, SPS115, TGLA122, INRA23, TGLA126, BM1818, ETH225, and BM1824) were used for analysis. Results. Eight of ten microsatellite loci (excluding TGLA227 and INRA23) were polymorphic. The number of alleles per locus is varied of one to five with average value of 2.80 0.47. The alleles, which are specific for Lowland-Caucasian line, were identified. We observed relatively high inbreeding level (FIS = 0,091) and very low effective population size (Ne = 1.8, 95% CIs, Parametric 1.1-2.9). We showed that two genetically distinct groups have taken part in formation of allele pool of studied wisent population. Conclusion. Our data indicated that the development of breeding program to decrease the inbreeding degree and to increase the level of genetic diversity is necessary.

The relationship between visual communication and natural sciences has long been present in these worlds. Joining forces from both fields in inter-disciplinary connections results in stronger outcomes for both disciplines. I am interested in knowing how to evaluate the effectiveness of different types of visual communication tools for scientific ecological subjects, which is why I hereby propose a specific cut-out step by step evaluation approach. I explain the assessment in a ‘Why? What? Who? How?’ layout, where the indicators for the effectiveness of the graphics are dictated by visual impact, recognition, understanding and memorability of the communicated message. Ecological subjects such as rewilding and trophic cascades are in need of more communication than the classical journal article or conference presentation, which is why they are taken as the ecological basis for this evaluation proposal.

The relationship between visual communication and natural sciences has long been present in these worlds. Joining forces from both fields in inter-disciplinary connections results in stronger outcomes for both disciplines. I am interested in knowing how to evaluate the effectiveness of different types of visual communication tools for scientific ecological subjects, which is why I hereby propose a specific cut-out step by step evaluation approach. I explain the assessment in a ‘Why? What? Who? How?’ layout, where the indicators for the effectiveness of the graphics are dictated by visual impact, recognition, understanding and memorability of the communicated message. Ecological subjects such as rewilding and trophic cascades are in need of more communication than the classical journal article or conference presentation, which is why they are taken as the ecological basis for this evaluation proposal.

Foamy viruses (FVs) are widely distributed and infect many animal species including non-human primates, horses, cattle, and cats. Several reports also suggest that other species can be FV hosts. Since most of such studies involved livestock or companion animals, we aimed to test blood samples from wild ruminants for the presence of FV-specific antibodies and, subsequently, genetic material. Out of 269 serum samples tested by ELISA with the bovine foamy virus (BFV) Gag and Bet antigens, 23 sera showed increased reactivity to at least one of them. High reactive sera represented 30% of bison samples and 7.5% of deer specimens. Eleven of the ELISA-positives were also strongly positive in immunoblot analyses. The peripheral blood DNA of seroreactive animals was tested by semi-nested PCR. The specific 275 bp fragment of the pol gene was amplified only in one sample collected from a red deer and the analysis of its sequence showed the highest homology for European BFV isolates. Such results may suggest the existence of a new FV reservoir in bison as well as in deer populations. Whether the origin of such infections stems from a new FV or is the result of BFV inter-species transmission remains to be clarified.

The relationship between visual communication and natural sciences has long been present in these worlds. Joining forces from both fields in inter-disciplinary connections results in stronger outcomes for both disciplines. I am interested in knowing how to evaluate the effectiveness of different types of visual communication tools for scientific ecological subjects, which is why I hereby propose a specific cut-out step by step evaluation approach. I explain the assessment in a ‘Why? What? Who? How?’ layout, where the indicators for the effectiveness of the graphics are dictated by visual impact, recognition, understanding and memorability of the communicated message. Ecological subjects such as rewilding and trophic cascades are in need of more communication than the classical journal article or conference presentation, which is why they are taken as the ecological basis for this evaluation proposal.

Инфекционный кератоконъюнктивит или моракселлез является наиболее распространенной причиной заболеваний глаз у крупного рогатого скота и родственных ему видов. Объектом исследования явилась сборная группа из двенадцати зубров, проходящая акклиматизацию в Шахдагском национальном парке, Азербайджан, с целью дальнейшей реинтродукции там же. Местность неблагополучна по инфекционному кератоконъюнктивиту крупного рогатого скота. Энзоотическая вспышка моракселлеза началась через три месяца после завоза животных, в период максимальной концентрации мух. Заболевание среди зубров распространялось очень быстро и протекало тяжело. Заболеваемость составила 83,3 %. После лечения кератоконъюнктивита двумя инъекциями Драксина в дозе 1 мл/40 кг с интервалом в 14 дней из десяти животных восемь выздоровело полностью, два животных ослепли на один глаз. Рекомендуется при перемещении неиммунных зубров в регионы, неблагополучные по инфекционному кератоконъюнктивиту, вакцинация животных сразу при постановке на карантин. Как только пройдут сроки карантина необходимо отгонять зубров в более высокие зоны горного леса и альпийских полян, где меньшее количество двукрылых насекомых и снижен риск заболеваний, общих для зубров и крупного рогатого скота., Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis or moraxellosis is the most common cause of eye disease in cattle and related species. The object of the study was a new group of twelve europian bison from European zoos acclimatizing in the Shahdag National Park, Azerbaijan with the aim of further reintroduction there. The region is contaminated in cattle moraxellosis. An enzootic outbreak of infectious keratoconjunctivitis began three months after importation of animals during the period of maximum concentration of thies. The disease among the bison spread very quickly and was severe. The incidence was 83.3 %. Ather treatment of keratoconjunctivitis with two injections of Draxin at a dose of 1 ml/40 kg with an interval of 14 days the eight bison of ten animals recovered completely, two animals were blinded in one eye. It is recommended when importation nonimmune bison to regions that are disadvantageous on infectious keratoconjunctivitis, vaccination of animals during the quarantine. As soon as the quarantine period passes, it is necessary to drive off the bison to higher areas of the mountain forest and alpine glades, where there are fewer flies and the risk of diseases common to bison and cattle is reduces, Ветеринарная патология, Выпуск 2 (72) 2020

Contemporary factual evidence treats the creation of the Society for the Protection of the European Bison as the beginning of the European bison restitution. The event that is considered decisive for this process was Jan Sztolcman’s speech at the Congress of Nature Conservation in Paris in the spring of 1923. Thanks to the search for documents stored in the Archives of Science of the Polish Academy of Sciences and the Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences in Krakow as well as articles published in years 1919−1924 in the press dedicated to forest, hunting and nature protection, it was established that the discussion on the necessity and possible ways of restoring this species to nature began in Poland as early as in 1921. In 1922, a private fund initiative arose to restore the European bison to the Białowieża Primeval Forest, curb the prevailing poaching, and recreate the former reputation of this hunting ground. It is possible that this concept – promoted by Władysław Janta−Połczyński – was treated as competitive to the creation of a representative hunting ground in Białowieża Primeval Forest planned from May 1921. For this reason, it was blocked by the government, and the funds donated to the restitution of European bison were not utilised. This delayed the actual beginning of the restitution of this species in the Białowieża Primeval Forest by several years, and the activities of hunters gathered around Władysław Janta−Połczyński at that time are now completely unknown. The article introduces some details of this concept, but also presents an unknown document from 1921, which shows that there was a notion of restoring European bison in the Białowieża Primeval Forest among state officials already at that time., Sylwan 164 (10): 870-878

Necrotic inflammation of the prepuce (NIP, posthitis) is probably the most serious threat to the males of European bison (Bison bonasus) population living in the Białowieża National Park. Approximately 6% of the males have been affected every year. The aim of this study was to explore genetic regions potentially affecting this disease. The population was divided into two groups: healthy (25) and affected by posthitis (112). All individuals were genotyped with the Illumina BovineHD BeadChip. Tests performed on a single-locus mixed model (EMMAX) resulted in one SNP on the 25th chromosome (rs134172402) showing statistically important association with the posthitis incidence. The closest candidate gene located near this SNP was the periplakin (PPL) coding protein associated with skin development and some autoimmunity skin diseases such as pemphigus foliaceus or atopic dermatitis. Therefore, we conclude that PPL might be the candidate gene for posthitis, but further studies are necessary to confirm its expression and role in affected tissues.

Návrat velkých savců je obvykle provázen různými obavami, což se neliší ani u zvažovaného návratu zubra do krajiny, který vyvolává potřebu obyvatel příslušného regionu vyrovnat se s jeho potenciálně obnovenou přítomností. Postoj, který k zubrovi veřejnost aktuálně zaujímá, souvisí s jeho dlouhodobou nepřítomností a nedostatkem informací o jeho chování, zejména ale s potenciálním rizikem spojeným s jeho trvalou a neomezenou přítomností v krajině., The return of large mammals is usually accompanied with various concerns, which does not differ even with the considered return of the bison to the landscape, which raises the need for residents of the region to cope with its presence. The public's attitude to the bison is related to its long-term absence and lack of information about its behavior, but especially to the potential risk associated with its permanent and unlimited presence in the landscape.

In Europe, the interest in introducing megaherbivores to achieve ambitious habitat restoration goals is increasing. In this study, we present the results of a one-year monitoring program in a rewilding project in Germany (Doeberitzer Heide), where European bison (Bison bonasus) and Przewalski’s horses (Equus ferus przewalskii) were introduced for ecological restoration purposes. Our objectives were to investigate diet and habitat preferences of Przewalski’s horses and European bison under free-choice conditions without fodder supplementation. In a random forest classification approach, we used multitemporal RapidEye time series imagery to map the diversity of available habitats within the study area. This spatially explicit habitat distribution from satellite imagery was combined with direct field observations of seasonal diet preferences of both species. In line with the availability of preferred forage plants, European bison and Przewalski’s horses both showed seasonal habitat preferences. Because of their different preferences for forage plants, they did not overlap in habitat use except for a short time in the colder season. European bison used open habitats and especially wet open habitats more than expected based on available habitats in the study area. Comparative foraging and feeding niches should be considered in the establishment of multispecies projects to maximize the outcome of restoration processes.

BackgroundAlthough significant efforts have been put into restituting the European bison (Bison bonasus) and increasing its population, it remains a globally endangered species and requires conservation. Protection programs of bison indicate the need for morphological studies of their individual systems, in order to enhance restitution programs and enable appropriate veterinary care. The aim of this study was to investigate the morphology of the coronary veins of the European bison (Bison bonasus).ResultsThe study was carried out on 78 hearts of European bison of both sexes, aged 5 to 21 years. The subepicardial veins were clearly visible after being filled with dyed synthetic latex (LBS 3060), Plastogen G and Batson’s No. 17. In all the studied animals, the great cardiac vein drains into the coronary sinus. The interventricular paraconal branch and the circumflex branch of the great cardiac vein were distinguished. The left marginal vein, which originated in the apical area or halfway along the length of the left ventricular margin, was easily identified in 65 animals (83%). In most animals (51 bison, 65%), the middle cardiac vein drained into the coronary sinus, while in some animals it drained into the right atrium (27 animals, 35%).ConclusionsBlood from the cardiac walls is drained into the great cardiac vein, the middle cardiac vein, the right coronary veins and numerous small cardiac veins.

Simple Summary The European bison (Bison bonasus) is an endangered species which faces a number of health threats. One potentially dangerous disease is paratuberculosis, which can cause diarrhea and cachexia in animals and is a potentially dangerous disease for humans. The aim of this study was to conduct a serological survey of paratuberculosis in Polish bison herds. Of the tested 165 European bison, three were found to be positive, indicating that paratuberculosis is not currently an urgent problem in this population. However, as the appearance of symptomatic paratuberculosis in a single European bison subpopulation could be fatal for the restitution of the species as whole, further random checks are needed. Abstract The European bison (Bison bonasus) is an endangered species which faces a range of health threats. As little is known of exposure of European bison to paratuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium avium spp. paratuberculosis, known to cause losses in cattle, the aim of the present study was to conduct serological survey in Polish bison herds. Between September 2018 and February 2021, blood samples were collected from 165 European bison from different regions of Poland. Samples were taken whenever the animals were immobilized (e.g., putting on telemetry collars) as well as from any dead animal. The serum samples were tested with ELISA. Three individuals, originating from different captive herds, were found to be seropositive. In conclusion, it was found that Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infections are not currently a problem in European bison, especially in free-range herds.