Abandoned Villages as a Factor in the Northward Expansion of the European Bison (Bison bonasus)
https://doi.org/10.21443/3034-1434-2025-3-4-94-103
Abstract
Most refuges of the European bison (Bison bonasus) are surrounded by developed areas with high human population density, which makes bison dispersal difficult or even impossible. However, the northernmost population of the species is an exception. It was established in 1991 in the Vologda Oblast, north of the bison’s historical range. This population is in good condition and continues to grow. One of the key factors behind this success is the presence of abandoned villages and the surrounding abandoned farmlands. These are — as provide suitable pastures for the bison — landscapes similar to those found further south. With ongoing rural depopulation, further increases in the numbers and range of the European bison in the North can be expected.
About the Authors
Igor Yu. Popov
St. Petersburg State University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Igor Yu. Popov — Dr. Sci. (Biology), Senior Researcher, Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology
Researcher ID: I-4096-2013
Scopus ID: 55427914900
RSCI ID: 76218
Tel.: +7 (911) 736-84-02
199034, St. Petersburg, Universitetskaya Embankment, 7/9
Igor V. Gusarov
Vologda Scientific Center, Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Igor V. Gusarov — Cand. Sci. (Biology), Leading Researcher, Departmental Head, Department for Feed and Nutrition of Farm Animals
Scopus ID: 57209507083
RSCI ID: 166882
Tel.: +7 (911) 502-85-70
160555, Vologda, Molochnoe, Lenina str., 14
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Review
For citations:
Popov I.Yu., Gusarov I.V. Abandoned Villages as a Factor in the Northward Expansion of the European Bison (Bison bonasus). Arctic and Innovations. 2025;3(4):94-103. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.21443/3034-1434-2025-3-4-94-103
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