Bison are being introduced to the Russian Arctic to replace extinct woolly mammoths. But why?

Scientists hope that by introducing plains bison (Bison bison bison) to the Russian Arctic, they can restore the region's grassy plains.  (Image credit: Hoberman Collection/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Scientists have introduced bison to the Russian Arctic to take on the role of extinct mammoths and help restore ancient ecosystems.

Twelve plains bison (Bison bison bison) have arrived at Ingilor Nature Park, a protected area covering more than 2.2 million acres (900,000 hectares) in the northern Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area. The animals traveled 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers) from a nursery in Denmark and disembarked from their long journey three weeks ago, according to a statement. Before they can discover their new home, however, the bison — also known as buffalos — must first complete a one-month quarantine.