Happy TravellerWelcome to Pubal, a captivating city located in southeast Poland. Known for its extraordinary wildlife and unique history, Pubal offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience that will leave you amazed. Join us as we explore the remarkable story of Pubal, the friendly European bison, and discover the hidden wonders of this charming city.
Pubal, also known as a zubr, gained fame throughout southeast Poland for his affectionate interactions with humans and his reluctance to reintegrate into the wild. His numerous escapes from captivity in search of human contact captured the attention of the media and made him a beloved figure among the public. Pubal stands as a testament to the extraordinary bond that can form between humans and animals.
The captivating history of Pubal began in July 2005 when he was discovered and rescued by charcoal burners in Rabe near Baligród. Separated from his mother by a flood, the young bison calf was taken into the care of local foresters who named him Pubal. For nine months, Pubal was lovingly raised by the Baligród forester Witold Szybowski and his wife Urszula, who even fed him milk from a baby bottle. The brewing company Kompania Piwowarska generously donated funds to cover some of Pubal’s feeding costs, emphasizing the significance of his presence.
In April 2006, Pubal was released into the wild near a zubr herd, but he surprised everyone by displaying an ongoing preference for human contact. Despite the carefully managed plan to reintroduce him into the wild and increase the genetic diversity of the bison group, Pubal continued seeking out humans, often interrupting picnics and interacting with locals. Efforts were made to encourage Pubal’s integration with his own species, but he consistently resisted, breaking out of enclosures and wandering freely through local villages.
Concerns arose about Pubal’s size and potential harm to humans, leading to a decision to relocate him permanently from the Bieszczady area in 2007. He found a new home at a zubr hybrid breeding farm in Karolew, where his role as a semen provider contributed to experimental żubroń breeding efforts. Pubal’s extraordinary journey captivated the nation and beyond, leading to his mention in books, articles, poems, and even a documentary film titled ‘Regret of the Bison.’
Although Pubal’s status since 2009 remains uncertain, his legacy lives on. His story stands as a testament to the unique connection between humans and animals and the impact that one extraordinary creature can have on an entire community. Come and experience the enchanting city of Pubal, where the spirit of Pubal the bison continues to inspire and captivate all who visit. Discover the hidden treasures of this remarkable city and create your own unforgettable memories in the heart of southeast Poland.
