El bisonte europeo regresa a Madrid después de 10.000 años

In a privileged valley to the west of Madrid, covered by holm oaks, junipers, and savins, the bisons roam freely, marking a historic return to the region more than 10,000 years later after their disappearance.

Eight bisons, six females and two males, have arrived to populate this unique enclave, which is not only the home of these majestic animals, but also of various bird species such as the vulture and the golden eagle.

Raúl Rodríguez, a passionate defender of local wildlife, explains that this territory is designated as ZEPA (Special Protection Areas for Birds) and highlights the importance of the natural habitat: «We want them to be in their habitat as they lived 10,000 years ago.» From this strategic point, you can catch a glimpse of the Sierra de Gredos, adding additional appeal to this protected area in Robledo de Chavela.

«For the first time in thousands of years, we have bisons back in the Community of Madrid and on Madrid soil,» shares Fernando Marín, director of the European bison project in Spain.

The bisons originally come from Poland and are part of a project developed in Segovia. Fernando observes with satisfaction that these animals are adapting well to their new home: «This change in fur and physical condition indicates that they are comfortable.»

With a surprising speed reaching 62 kilometers per hour, these animals are both imposing and peaceful; «One of the good things about them is that they do not attack humans,» assures Fernando. Regarding their longevity, he reveals that females can live up to 25 years and males up to 20.

Madrid residents and tourists will be able to enjoy this unique experience at Bison Park Madrid, an ecological park that will open its doors in the coming months. Víctor Manuel Alonso, one of the project’s promoters, highlights its importance: «It is an initiative that combines ecology, culture, and education about wildlife, all just 45 minutes from Madrid.»

Arturo Grinda, landscape architect involved in the project, explains that the first step is to integrate the bisons into their new environment before welcoming visitors. «What is to come in Madrid will be historic and unparalleled,» concludes Raúl.

This exciting return of the European bison represents a victory for the conservation of local wildlife and an invaluable opportunity to learn about the history and protection of these majestic creatures.