Face to Face with Europe's Giants
Standing before a European bison is humbling. These endangered giants—the largest wild mammals on the continent—once roamed from the British Isles to Siberia. Today, they survive in only a handful of protected sites worldwide. Pape is Latvia's only location where wild bison roam free.
Magnificent Creatures
- Size: Bulls weigh up to 900 kg—Europe's largest land animals
- Appearance: Dark or golden-brown wool with distinctive humped shoulders
- Horns: Both males and females carry short, curved horns
- Lifespan: Approximately 25 years in the wild
Conservation Success Story
Listed in the World Red Book as endangered, European bison faced near-extinction in the 20th century. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, herds now thrive in protected areas like Pape, where they play a vital role in maintaining biodiverse meadow ecosystems.
Bison Behavior
- Social Structure: Herds of ~20 individuals—family groups and bachelor herds
- Feeding: Bulls consume up to 32 kg daily; diet includes grasses, bark, berries, and fungi
- Mating Season: August–October, with calves born May–July
- Activity: Most active at dawn and dusk
Tips for Your Visit
- Maintain at least 30 meters distance
- Speak softly to alert animals of your presence
- Position yourself downwind—bison rely heavily on smell
- Best viewing times: early morning and late afternoon
- Never approach with dogs
Visitor Information
Location: Pape Nature Park, near Lake Pape, Brušvīti
Hours: Year-round, 10:00–18:00
Important: Guided tours required—book at least 3 days in advance
Contact: +371 29224331 | gidi@pdf.lv