Rescued Cantabrian Urogal,Burned in León Fire,Found Unharmed
León,Spain – September 5,2025,18:47 CEST – Technicians from the Board have successfully located and documented the Cantabrian Urogal,nicknamed “thesenzno,” who sustained burns during the wildfires that ravaged Barniedo last summer. The animal appears to be in good health and is adapting well to its habitat following its release in November 2024.Thesenzno’s survival is a critical win for the endangered Cantabrian Urogal population, which faces ongoing threats from habitat loss and increasingly frequent, intense wildfires exacerbated by climate change. The species, a subspecies of the European bison, numbered fewer than 300 individuals as of 2023, making each animal’s well-being paramount to the species’ long-term viability. The recent fires in león province raised fears of significant losses to the already vulnerable population.
Thesenzno was released near the location where it was originally found injured, after completing an acclimatization period at the Monte de Valsemana estate.Board technicians released the animal in an oak forest with abundant acorn production, a vital food source for the Urogal. The successful reintroduction and subsequent monitoring provide hope for the continued recovery of this iconic species.