Ecology of the wood bison at the initial period of acclimatization in Yakutia

The results of the 16-year reacclimatization of wood bison in Central Yakutia are summed up. A description of the number, nutrition, territory development, reproduction and scientific and practical importance of bison introduction is given. The young growth started breeding at the age of 2–3 years, the first offspring at the age of 3–4 years. 15 generations of bison obtained. Replenishment of calves in relation to the main livestock at the beginning of the year ranged from 22 to 55%. The total number of wood bison reached 310 individuals. Adaptation to new living conditions is proceeding successfully. The natural and climatic conditions of Central Yakutia correspond to the ecological requirements of the species. The productivity of different grassland types was determined. A list of food plants for bison was established. The release of two batches of bison into the wild in the Sinyaya Nature Park in 2017 and 2018 gave positive results. It is shown that shallow valley lands widespread in Central Yakutia represent a vast and practically free ecological niche for the habitation of reacclimatizers. Data on satellite telemetry of bison are presented. Intercontinental translocation of wood bison in Yakutia is an important event in the renewal of the fauna of Russia. Further naturalization of the species in the historical range represents an important and urgent task of our time.

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