The park was founded in 1928 specifically as a preservation site for the European bison, which was nearly extinct in the wild at the time.
It is one of the few places in Europe where visitors can observe the rare Przewalski horse in a semi-wild setting.
The park participates in the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) to maintain genetic diversity.
The enclosures are intentionally designed to be large, often requiring visitors to wait patiently to spot the animals in the dense forest canopy.
Several of the animal species housed here are part of reintroduction projects aimed at returning them to the wild.
The site contains a dedicated falconry center that showcases birds of prey, including golden eagles and white-tailed eagles.
Wisentgehege Springe is a 90-hectare wildlife enclosure located in the Deister hills of Lower Saxony, dedicated primarily to the conservation of the European bison. The facility functions as a breeding center for the species, playing a critical role in the international recovery of wisents. Beyond the European bison, the park houses approximately 100 species of wild animals, including Przewalski horses, lynx, wolves, and moose. Visitors walk along a circular trail approximately 6 kilometers long that traverses forests and meadow enclosures. The reserve is operated in cooperation with scientific institutions to study species-specific behaviors in semi-natural environments. Feeding demonstrations and falconry displays are standard educational features of the park's daily operations. The terrain is characterized by the natural undulating landscape of the Deister forest range.
The elevated viewing platform near the central European bison enclosure provides the best vantage point for photography.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the trails are unpaved and can be muddy.
Bring binoculars, as the expansive nature of the enclosures means animals are often found at a significant distance from the walking paths.
Check the daily program at the entrance for feeding times, as these are the best opportunities to see the more elusive animals like the wolves or lynx.
Attempting to feed the animals with personal food, which is strictly prohibited to maintain their health and natural behavior.
Open year-round, including public holidays.
Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing the animals; dogs must be kept on a short leash at all times.
