In a tragic incident, a European bison named Podjadek died during transport from the European Bison Breeding Centre in Niepołomice to the Animal Showcase in Gołuchów, writes Tech WP. This event has shocked wildlife experts and enthusiasts alike.
The death occurred on the night of August 18-19, as Podjadek was being moved as part of a program aimed at boosting the population of European bison in various locations.
Incident unacceptable
The bison did not survive the journey, leading to immediate outrage and sorrow among the State Forests employees. The preliminary reports suggest that suffocation was the cause of death, highlighting the severity and unacceptability of the incident, especially given the protected status of European bison.
In response, the State Forests swiftly notified the prosecutor's office, signaling a possible criminal aspect to the tragedy.
Consequences will be imposed
Director General Witold Koss expressed deep regret over the situation, describing it as an egregious error. He confirmed that significant professional consequences were imposed on those responsible.
This includes the dismissal of the forester from the Niepołomice Forest District and calls for explanations from the directors of the Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection and the Forest Culture Centre in Gołuchów.
To prevent future occurrences, the State Forests have launched an internal audit of bison care procedures nationwide.
Inspections and audits are being conducted to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and that the European bison, a protected species, receives the utmost care and respect.
