The European Bison (Zimbrul in Romanian) is more than just an animal; it is a living relic of history. Once the undisputed king of Europe’s forests, the bison vanished from the Romanian wild for over 200 years. Today, thanks to massive conservation efforts, the bison has returned to its ancestral home in the Carpathian Mountains.
A majestic European Bison (Zimbru) standing in a lush green Romanian forest, symbolizing the wild spirit of the Carpathians.
The Legend of Dragoș Vodă and the Founding of MoldovaThe most famous story involving the bison is linked to the very birth of the medieval state of Moldova. Legend has it that Prince Dragoș, while hunting through the dense northern forests, pursued a fierce bison for days.
The chase ended near a river where the Prince’s favorite dog, Molda, drowned while attacking the beast. In memory of his loyal dog, Dragoș named the river Moldova and chose the Bison’s Head (Capul de Zimbru) as the official seal and coat of arms for the entire province. To this day, the bison remains the symbol of strength and independence for Romanians.
The Bison Today: Where to See ThemRomania is one of the few places in Europe where you can see these giants (weighing up to 1,000 kg!) in semi-freedom or fully wild conditions. The best places to visit are:
- Vânători-Neamț Natural Park: The most famous "Bison Land" (Ținutul Zimbrului).
- Armeniș (Țarcu Mountains) (see more): Where a large population has been successfully released into the wild.
- Valea Zimbrilor (Vama Buzăului) (see more): A great reservation for families and photographers.
Respect the Wild: Safety FirstSeeing a bison in the forest is a spiritual experience, but remember: they are massive, powerful, and territorial. Wild animals are unpredictable. * Keep your distance: Never approach a bison closer than 50 meters.
- Silent observation: Do not make loud noises or use flash photography, as it can agitate the animals.
- Stay alert: If a bison starts pawing the ground or snorting, it’s a sign to back away slowly.
FAQ: European Bison (Zimbru)1. Is the bison the same as the American buffalo? No. While they are cousins, the European Bison is taller and leaner, adapted for living in dense forests rather than open plains.
2. Is it safe to hike in bison areas? Yes, but you must stay on marked trails. Bison usually avoid humans, but if you encounter one unexpectedly, remember that wild animals are unpredictable and give them plenty of space to move away.
3. Why did the bison disappear in the first place? Over-hunting and deforestation in the 18th and 19th centuries led to their extinction in the wild. All bison living today are descendants of a few individuals that survived in zoos.
