Bison: The Giant of the Steppes

Bison: The Giant of the Steppes

This episode of Green Frontier explores the return of bison, the giants of the steppe, to their historic habitat in Kazakhstan and their role in restoring local ecosystems. The programme reveals the striking climatic similarities between the Great Plains of North America and the Kazakh steppe, fossil evidence of ancient bison in the region, and their unique role as «ecosystem engineers» shaping vegetation and soil.

The episode highlights the successful adaptation and breeding of Canadian and Belarusian bison in Buiratau and Karkaraly national parks. It also explores cooperation between the state and private investors, the link between biodiversity conservation and ecotourism, and how these animals have become a major attraction for both international and local travellers.