The population of bison is growing in the Caucasian reserve

Photo: the press service of the Caucasian Reserve

The Caucasian State Nature Biosphere Reserve summed up the results of the annual summer census of bison. Visually, the registration group observed 835 animals. 5 local groups were examined. Mountain bison are exploring new territories, the population is stable and does not cause concern. This conclusion was made by the researchers based on the data obtained.

For 18 years, the bison population in the Caucasian Reserve has increased 8 times. In 2002, there were 140 individuals here, and these ungulates were threatened with extinction. However, thanks to the strengthening of the protection of the territory of the reserve, since 2002 the number of bison living in the specially protected natural area has been steadily growing. According to calculations in 2020, this figure is about 1200 individuals.

The population of bison in the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve is censored twice a year. The main one takes place in the summer. In winter, researchers conduct an aerial survey, the press service of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve said.

The Caucasian Reserve is located in the western part of the Greater Caucasus in the upper reaches of the Belaya, Malaya and Bolshaya Laba, Shakhe, Sochi, Mzymta rivers, and is limited by coordinates 43˚30΄- 44˚05΄ N. and 36˚45΄- 40˚50΄ east longitude. The main territory covers an area of 280034 hectares, the cluster site - Khostinskaya yew-boxwood grove - 301 hectares. 

The reserve is located on the territory of three constituent entities of the Russian Federation: Krasnodar Territory, the Republic of Adygea and the Karachay-Circassia Republic.

Website of Caucasian Reserve: kavkazzapoved.ru

Map of Reserve