In the quiet countryside of Nijlen, a herd of American bison roams the open meadows of Hoeveslagerij ’t Gewat, also known as De Slappen Uier. These animals, once nearly driven to extinction on the vast prairies of North America, now thrive here under the care of the Verbraecken family. With their heavy build, powerful shoulders, thick coats, and curved horns, the bison are living reminders of the untamed wilderness from which they come. Their lives follow the rhythm of the seasons. In spring, calves are born after a long gestation, staying close to their mothers for milk and protection, while the herd bull ensures the continuation of the bloodline. The bison graze on grasses and sedges, their natural diet, and their sturdy frames and thick hides make them well adapted to both harsh winters and hot summers. Visitors to the farm can also experience this world on a covered wagon ride that rolls steadily into the fields. The wagon stops near the herd, where the animals gather close, and the guide explains who is who among them, pointing out the bull, the mothers, and the calves. The story unfolds not only about their daily life here in Belgium but also about their history in North America, their behaviour in the wild, and the way they interact as a herd. From the wagon, you see how the animals move together, how they graze, and sometimes how the younger ones play. The ride continues to the corral, where visitors learn about the quieter but vital side of animal care, how bison are checked for their health, treated when sick, and handled safely despite their immense strength. The farm is not only a sanctuary for these magnificent animals but also a place where their meat is prepared with care in the traditional farm butcher shop. The tour often ends with the chance to taste bison products, from steaks to sausages, giving visitors a sense of how the pastures and the herd are connected to the table. In this way, the bison of Nijlen bridge continents and histories, reminding us of both the fragility of nature and its ability to endure when given space and respect. 回