Cow From Poland Left Home To Join A Herd Of Wild Bison

Mar 15, 2020 by apost team

While many animals operate on instinct, some animals seem to have an independent mind. Cows are known to be herd animals, as are bison. However, not all animals think the same way. One cow in Poland decided to make a run for it and escape the pathway to the slaughterhouse that would be inevitable for a cow of her age and size.

According to the BBC, this cow ran away from home and joined a herd of wild bison living on protected land in Poland. This herd is protected because wild bison became extinct in Poland about 100 years ago.

The cow is of the Limousin breed, which is known for its thick and long coat and ability to withstand extreme cold. Poland typically has very cold winters, and this cow is built more like a buffalo than a typical American cow with short hair.

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The naturalists were surprised to discover that the cow made it through the winter with the herd of bison. The bison seem to accept her as one of their own, even though she is smaller and a different color. The cow is still too young to mate, but the naturalists are concerned about that possibility.

The cow is much smaller than a buffalo. If she were impregnated, giving birth to a "beefalo" cross could kill her. Such a birth could also dilute the gene pool of the bison, which the naturalists do not want to happen, reports the BBC.

The naturalists plan to safely remove the Limousin cow from the herd of bison during the spring or summer. However, the longer the cow stays as a member of the herd, the more difficult it will be for the naturalists to break into the group and safely sedate and capture the cow. The bison may see her as one of their own and defend her. Bison are strong and determined animals.

Do you think they should remove the cow? Let us know your thoughts about this interesting story! And pass it on to other animal loving friends and family.