About the Red Book of the Republic of Belarus

The fifth edition of the Red Book of the Republic of Belarus was presented and released at the end of 2025, including over 500 species of flora and fauna, with an additional 55 species of animals and plants added, while 38 were removed.

The new edition reflects more accurate biodiversity accounting data and includes new categories of species, such as algae, lichens, and mosses.

This is the result of systematic nature conservation efforts, during which the status of some species, such as the European bison, was downgraded due to successful population recovery.

According to scientists, the increase in the number of Red Book species does not indicate a deterioration of the ecological situation – it is the result of more accurate accounting.

The Red Book has five statuses: from endangered species to those that are already close to their natural distribution conditions. A preventive list is also being formed. There is also a "black list" – species presumed extinct. As a result of the inventory, six species from the "black list" were found again in Belarus in this edition.

An example of successful nature conservation work is the increase in the European bison population. Currently, the number of this species exceeds three thousand individuals. It has moved from the "endangered" status to the "recovering" category.