Russian actor Sergey Burunov has stopped paying for the upkeep of a European bison named Mukhomor that he adopted in the Moscow region, according to Telegram channel Mash.
The actor had funded the care of the animal at the Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Reserve for several years, but staff members confirmed that financial contributions for the bison ceased this year.
Burunov originally selected Mukhomor in 2022 during an excursion to the Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Reserve, located in the Podmoskovye area of the Moscow region. During the visit, guide staff offered the actor a choice to adopt one of three bison calves born in 2021: a red calf named Mugorka, an active calf named Munalisa, or a lazy calf named Mukhomor. Burunov opted for Mukhomor and formally took on sponsorship for his care.
In the initial years following the adoption, the actor made regular visits to the reserve to see the bison, frequently bringing gifts of fresh apples and carrots for the animal. Providing full financial maintenance and food for Mukhomor cost Burunov approximately 100,000 rubles each year.
Bison Maintenance and Reserve Staff Reactions
The sudden halt in financial transfers this year caught workers at the nature reserve by surprise. Representative staff at the reserve confirmed the accuracy of the reports regarding the stopped payments, while Burunov himself declined to provide any public comment regarding his decision.
The Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Reserve is a federal protected natural area in Russia known for operating a specialized European bison breeding center. The European bison, or wisent, is Europe's largest land mammal and was once on the brink of extinction, making reserve sponsorship programs crucial for funding their ongoing protection, feeding, and veterinary care.
Burunov is a prominent Russian film and television actor, widely recognized for his comedic roles and voice-over work. He previously made headlines online after attending a live concert by the legendary Russian rock group Kino. Following the event, the actor posted a photo on social media showing himself with a comical facial expression against the backdrop of a stadium filled with 80,000 spectators, which quickly became a popular internet meme.
