![Fact Check: Żubr europejski[2], żubr[7] (Bos bonasus[8][9][10]) – gatunek łożyskowca z rodziny wołowatych, rzędu...](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fimages%2Fblog-images%2F14729%2Fzubr-europejski2-zubr7-b-d4b0cb15.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Fact Check: Żubr europejski - Populacja i Status
What We Know
The claim states that the European bison, or żubr (Bison bonasus), is the largest land mammal in Europe and provides specific population statistics as of December 31, 2022. According to Wikipedia, the global population of European bison was 10,536 individuals, with 1,727 in closed breeding facilities, 584 in semi-free breeding, and 8,225 in free-range populations. In Poland, there were 2,608 individuals, with the majority (2,394) living in free-range herds across eight populations.
The data aligns with reports from the Białowieski National Park, which indicates that the population of European bison has been monitored and is subject to conservation efforts. The park's records confirm that the numbers have been increasing due to successful breeding programs and conservation strategies.
Analysis
The claim about the European bison being the largest land mammal in Europe is accurate, as it is recognized as such in various scientific and wildlife resources (Wikipedia, Zubry.com). The population figures provided in the claim are also corroborated by multiple sources, including the Białowieski National Park and Zagroda Pokazowa Żubrów, which report similar statistics for the year 2022.
However, it is important to note that the population figures can fluctuate due to various factors, including conservation efforts and environmental changes. For instance, a recent report indicated that as of April 2025, the population in Poland had increased to 3,060 individuals, suggesting a trend of growth (Lasy.gov.pl). This indicates that while the claim is based on accurate data, it may not reflect the most current statistics available.
The sources used are credible, with the Białowieski National Park being a leading authority on the conservation of European bison, and Wikipedia providing a general overview that is frequently updated. However, Wikipedia's reliability can vary, and it is always advisable to cross-check with primary sources when possible.
Conclusion
The claim is Partially True. While the statistics regarding the global and Polish populations of European bison as of December 31, 2022, are accurate, the claim does not account for the most recent data indicating a population increase in Poland. Therefore, while the foundational information is correct, it lacks the latest updates that reflect ongoing conservation successes.