Israeli Embassy in Poland Sponsors Bison Named 'Zubriel' at Warsaw Zoo

The Israeli Embassy in Poland has sponsored the care of a bison at the Warsaw Zoo for one year, naming the animal "Zubriel." This name is a symbolic blend of the Polish word for bison, "Żubr," and a common Israeli name suffix, reflecting a cultural connection. The embassy funded the bison's upkeep and treatment, and a plaque acknowledging the embassy's contribution was unveiled by Israeli Ambassador Yaakov Finkelstein.

This initiative also honors the historical ties between the zoo and its legendary manager Jan Żabiński and his wife Antonina, who saved Jews during the Holocaust by hiding them in their home and within the zoo grounds. Jan Żabiński was also known for his research on bison. Ambassador Finkelstein described the sponsorship as a tribute to the zoo, its iconic manager, and the city of Warsaw, which has hosted Israeli diplomats for many years.