First Video Evidence of Wolves Hunting Bison Captured in Białowieża Forest
On September 15, 2025, researchers recorded the first-ever video evidence of a wolf pack attacking a herd of European bison in the Białowieża Forest, a vast woodland straddling the border between Poland and Belarus. The hunt unfolded over 22 minutes, from 7:25 to 7:47 in the morning, marking a major breakthrough in understanding predator-prey dynamics between these two species. The pack consisted of seven wolves, while the bison herd numbered 11 individuals: five adult females, two adult males, one young male, and three calves.
Hidden cameras captured the encounter, allowing scientists to closely analyze the confrontation. Researchers from the Polish Academy of Sciences stated:
“To the best of our knowledge, we present the first video-recorded evidence of wolves attacking a herd of bison in the Białowieża Forest, with particular focus on a newborn calf.”
Although no direct kill was visible in the footage, the scientists noted that “the European bison is indeed a potential prey species for wolves.” It is worth noting that the European bison was completely wiped out in the wild by 1919, but the species was successfully reintroduced to the Białowieża Forest in 1952. This incident underscores the importance of monitoring predator and herbivore population dynamics, as well as their ecological interactions.
New Research Horizons
The study conducted by the Polish Academy of Sciences opens up fresh avenues for understanding ecological processes in this unique natural area. This event could serve as a starting point for further research in ecology and biodiversity conservation.
Studying the dynamics between predators and their prey is critically important for understanding the Białowieża Forest ecosystem and its resilience. Such observations can help develop conservation strategies for both bison and wolves, which in turn will support maintaining the natural balance in the region.