European Bison

The European bison, also known as wisent, is a large mammal native to Europe and is the continent's heaviest wild land animal. Similar in appearance to domestic cattle, it has a robust body, a thick neck, and a prominent hump on its shoulders. Once widespread, European bison faced near extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss, but conservation efforts have helped restore populations through breeding programs. They primarily inhabit forested areas, are herbivorous, grazing on grasses, leaves, and bark. European bison play a vital role in their ecosystems by helping maintain healthy forest environments.