Our natural heritage DiscoveringDIE WASSERMEISTER the untouched. Das macht die MA 45 – Wiener Gewässer

MIT UNTERSTÜTZUNG VON BUND UND EUROPÄISCHER UNION

Europäischer Landwirtschasfonds für die Entwicklung des ländlichen Raums: Hier investiert Europa in die ländlichen Gebiete NATIONALPARKS AUSTRIA Editorial

Touched by the untouched

Austria is renowned for the beauty of its landscapes and its natural diversity: from towering glaciers in the west to dense mountain forests, deeply carved valleys, dynamic wetland meadows, and the great step- pe lake in the East. The six local national parks preserve this precious natural heritage for us and future generations. Everyone should visit a national park at least once in their life and discover the impressive diversity of landscapes, animals, and plants. Because: „Extraordinary experiences await in all six of these gems of nature.“

Apart from the Hohe Tauern, the list of Austrian national parks also includes the Thayatal, the Kalkal- pen, the Donau-Auen, the Gesäuse, and the Neusiedler See – Seewinkel. Together, they make up 2,380 square kilometres, so around three per cent of the country’s surface. As important centres with various functions, the national parks protect the greatest treasures of our nation. They are considered flagship projects of nature conservation and species diversity as well as places of rest, recreation, and relaxation. At the same time, they are both research locations and visitor attractions and provide jobs for more than 300 people. Since these unique nature conservation projects are of enormous importance, the federal govern- ment and the regional state governments share the responsibility.

Coordinated by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Ma- nagement (BMLFUW), the six national parks work closely together under the umbrella brand „National- parks Austria“. The new information campaign „Nothing touches us like the untouched“ aims at reaching out to a wider public. Its goal is to familiarise people with the local treasures of nature, to make them reflect, and, particularly, to prompt them to visit a national park.

In the course of the initiative „Best of Austria“, the BMLFUW puts the spotlight on the six nature re- serves as Austrian model projects. The professional cross-border cooperation with our neighbours or the ranger training, for example, have earned international recognition.

This magazine introduces you to the unique features of our six national parks and provides you with numerous tips for discovering the breath-taking diversity yourself: Kilian, Fortuna, or Glocknerlady can be spotted soaring through the air at the Hohe Tauern; at the Thayatal, you can encounter otherwise rare crayfish. The Donau-Auen are home to European pond turtles and, at the Gesäuse, you can find around 50 different kinds of orchids. At the Kalkalpen, you might catch a glimpse of a lynx and Neusiedler See – Seewinkel awaits you with an abundance of birds. Have fun reading and exploring! Z. Kudich (S. 1, 1), E. Mayrhofer (S. 1, 1), A. Erler (S. 2, 1), Ch. Übl (S. 32, 1) 32, Übl (S. Ch. 1), 2, (S. Erler A. 1), 1, (S. Mayrhofer E. 1), 1, (S. Kudich Z.

IMAGES: Erich Mayrhofer, chairman of Association Nationalparks Austria

IMPRINT: Publisher and owner: Verein Nationalparks Austria, Project „Öffentlichkeitsarbeit Nationalparks Austria 2015 – 2018“, Nationalpark Allee 1, A-4591 Molln, ZVR registration number 798627861, VAT ID: ATU 678 91 114, tel.: +43 (0) 2949/70 05 75, web: nationalparksaustria.at, email: [email protected] ++ Production: Development Group Media – Hatzenbichler & Klemenz GmbH, Dr.-Herrmann-Gasse 4, A-9020 Klagenfurt, VAT ID: ATU 675 48 102, tel.: +43 (0) 463/33 92 53 0, office Vienna: Teybergasse 14/2, A-1140 Vienna, tel.: +43 (0) 676/35 37 307, email: [email protected], web: dgmedia.at DasOriginal Österreichische print by: Umweltzeichen Ferdinand Berger & Söhne GmbH, Horn. No. für686. Druckerzeugnisse, Printed in line UZ with24, UW the 686 Austrian E co-label Guidelines for Idea and concept: Ludwig Schleritzko, Agnes Erler, Nationalparks Austria Ferdinand Berger & Söhne GmbH. ++ Circulation: 185,000 copies. ++ Molln, May 2016. ++ All rights reserved. Printed Products.

Unbenannt-1 1 07.07.2009 13:28:58

3 of humancultivation forestswhichhave -suchaspristine withareaswhichhavederness been sparedfromany kind cape. At leastifyou associate untouchednature andwil- nature israreintheCentral Europeanculturallands- untouched.“ of Nationalparks is:Austria „Nothingtouchesuslikethe campaign information The coremessageofthecurrent unique features, sharecommon values. the six reserves may be–they allhave thesamegoals. Despite their As differentasthenatural treasuresofthenational parks This mightsoundparadoxical, untouched sincetruly Alpine sawyer beetle • Lynx, white-backed woodpecker, • spruce-fir-beech forests, • Upper Austria • established in1997, 20,825 ha 4KALKALPEN eagle • Bearded vulture, Alpine ibex, pineforests • glaciers, waterfalls, Austrian stone • Carinthia, Salzburg and Tyrol 1991(T), 185,600ha • established in 1981 (C), 1984(S), • Common kingfisher, European • river dynamics, alluvialforests • Vienna andLower Austria • established in1996, 9,300 ha 1DONAU-AUEN chamois endemic specieslike Dianthus • • rocky cliffs, forests, alpine • Styria established in2002, • 11,306 ha 2 3 HOHE TAUERN gorges, mountainpastures white-tailed eagle newt, black poplar, pond turtle, Danubecrested plumarius, sandpiper, meadows, river GESÄUSE 4 serving and restoring nature’s andrestoring condition. serving original, pristine is why thelocalnational parksdedicate themselves topre- this kindhasscarcityvalue, even innational parks. That remained unchanged since the last ice age. of Wilderness Austria’s fi offirst cial national park. a The projectstarted Hohe Tauern National Park. Ten later, years itbecame Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol –decidedtoestablishthe with the„Heiligenblut Agreement“. Three federalstates – „Let nature benature“ The history of The history Austria’s national parksbeganin1971 ARLBERG VOR- Bregenz birdwatchers migratory birds, hotspot for 5 lizard stork,wildcat, Europeangreen biodiversity,•plant high black • water gap, deciduouswoodlands, • Lower Austria andCzech Republic • established in2000, 1,330 ha/A 6 THAYATAL • resting andbreeding area for • salineponds, wet meadow, grazing • Burgenland andHungary • established in1993, 9,674ha/A arid grasslands lands, reed beltof thesteppe lake NEUSIEDLER SEE–SEEWINKEL TYROL Innsbruck

IMAGES: S. Zeman (Nr. 1, 1), H. Kolland (Nr. 2, 1), NPHT (Nr. 3, 1), Kronsteiner (Nr. 4, 1), Archiv NP Neusiedler See – Seewinkel (Nr. 5, 1), NPHT E. Kahlbacher (Nr. 6, 1), C. Thomas (S. 5, 1) TYROL EASTERN full ofgeese. Auen, andtheNeusiedler See–SeewinkelNational Park is the Hohe Tauern, white-tailedeaglesbreedintheDanube- Kalkalpen andtheGesäuse, beardedvulturessoararound Wildcats feelat homeinthe Thaya valley, lynxroamthe theirown ways.vers cancarve And animalsprofit fromthis. old,grow deadwood is left lying on the forest ground, ri- „let nature be nature“.the principle Trees are allowed to that havein thiscountry beendeclarednational parks. trend; today, mostpreciousareas therearesixecologically Because nothing touches uslike theuntouched. parks. Together, they protect andconserve ourmost valuable local gems of nature. Six of Austria’s ecologically most valuable regions have beendeclared national In many respects, thenational parkswork accordingto Six uniquegemsofnature 3 Hohe Tauern SALZBURG Salzburg UPPER AUSTRIA CARINTHIA Klagenfurt Enns Linz 4 Kalkalpen 2 Gesäuse 5 LOWER AUSTRIA STYRIA 6 Thayatal the sunbeamsontheirskin, andbreathe inthescentof experience.own personal nomena, but nothing leaves impressionthanour agreater films, andexplanations aboutfl ora, fauna, andnatural phe- ture andtheremarkablebeautyoflandscapes. na- andprovide unforgettableinsightsintopristine visitors well. National parkssharetheirnatural diversitywithall „Nothing touchesusliketheuntouched.“ Donau For thosewholistentothesoundofriver, who feel andtelevisionmightflThe internet ood uswithimages, When nature isleftuntouched, we humansbenefi t as NATIONALPARKS AUSTRIA Graz St. Pölten Seewinkel 5 Neusiedler See– 1 Donau-Auen Eisenstadt LAND BURGEN- VIENNA

Umbrella Initiative

NATIONALPARKS AUSTRIA Umbrella Initiative

Naturlich.

auer, die Kalk- Gell B sind eigentlich alpen die Kasalpen!

Bridge to the future The six Austrian National Parks - here a glance at the Thaya valley - preserve our natural heritage for future generations. And for all of us. Everyone is invited to get to know these gems of nature right on our doorstep.

forest, the slogan becomes reality: „Nothing touches us like Nationalparks Austria the untouched.“ Nationalparks Austria is the umbrella brand of the six Further information nationalparksaustria.at Austrian national parks. Together, all six national parks co- ver an area of 2,380 square kilometres, that is around three What is a national park? per cent of the surface of Austria. Via the umbrella organi- In order for an area to be recognised as a national park, sation Nationalparks Austria, they coordinate their actions a number of principles of the International Union for Con- and present themselves to the public. servation of Nature (IUCN) have to be fulfi lled. For ex- ample, at last 75 per cent of the nature reserve have to be INFOS & KONTAKT: economically unused. Compliance with the regulations is Verein Nationalparks Austria checked regularly. Projekt „Öffentlichkeitsarbeit Nationalparks Austria National parks are ambassadors for a responsible and ap- 2015 – 2018“ preciative approach to nature. The main duties of the national parks include the protec- A-2082 Hardegg, Merkersdorf 90 tion of valuable ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversi- Tel.: +43 (0) 2949/70 05 75 ty, as well as education and research. Visitors are welcome. E-Mail: [email protected] Thomas (1) C. Manhart (1), D. Je intakter die Natur, desto besser schmeckt’s. Deshalb kommen viele Further information: iucn.org Webseite: nationalparksaustria.at IMAGES: Ja! Natürlich-Köstlichkeiten aus besonders geschützten Gebieten: den Nationalparkregionen Österreichs. Und damit Sie sofort wissen, woher genau, sind die jeweiligen Bio-Spezialitäten mit dem Nationalpark-Logo gekennzeichnet.

6 Mehr unter www.janatuerlich.at GIBT’S BEI: © Kovacs

8 NP- Donau-Auen

Donau-Auen NATIONAL PARK

These birds had almost disappeared completely from the Donau-Auen, now there are more than 30 breeding pairs again. The endangered species get support from the national park, which is ensuring that the Danube can fl ow even more Life by the river The Danube traverses the national freely with numerous river engineering projects. Formerly park over a distance of 36 kilometres disconnected backwaters are now reconnected to the Danu- and shapes the Donau-Auen habitat be and many hard river embankments have already been re- with its branches (l.). Visitors can ex- moved. „Together with our partner the waterway administ- plore the park on boats together with ration company viadonau, we have renaturated around fi ve rangers. Local here: the European pond turtle (r.) kilometres of river bank and have removed about 100,000 cubic metres of stone blocks from revetments and groynes,“ Christian Baumgartner, director of the nature and science section of the Donau-Auen National Park, says.

Green wilderness along the great river The credo of the riparian forest management is „less is again. What is the best way to experience the green wilder- more“. The white-tailed eagles, in particular, profi t from ness along the great river? – From the river, of course! Gui- that. „They need large protected areas, old nesting trees, ded by a ranger, you can explore certain Danube branches and quiet areas where there is no forestry in order to breed, and gravel banks via a rubber dinghy, canoe, or a traditio- Donau-Auen because they are highly sensitive to disturbance,“ bird ex- nal tschaike. Themed excursions furthermore offer insights pert Georg Frank of the national park explains. The Donau- into the special fauna and fl ora of the Donau-Auen; from Auen provide exactly that. Since 2005, the birds of prey, listening to red deer to botanic rarities like the wild grapes National Park which had previously been extinct in Austria, have been to fi refl y night hikes. breeding again in the Donau-Auen. There are currently fi ve Those who want to explore the national park on their The free-fl owing Danube is the lifeline of one of the last great water meadow landscapes in breeding pairs in the area and, during the winter, even 17 own can do so on a 100-kilometre road network with 21 Europe, the Donau-Auen National Park. Its unique mosaic of biospheres provides refuge for white-tailed eagles – including winter visitors. different nature trails, theme trails, and circular walks. And, a range of rare animal and plant species. The European pond turtle, the white-tailed eagle, But others benefi t from the rigorous conservation measu- maybe, you will spot a white-tailed eagle in the sky, a beaver the little ringed plover, and many more appreciate that. res as well, namely visitors of the national park. They now swimming by, or a pond turtle enjoying a sunbath. Watch have a chance of catching a glimpse of the majestic birds out, the park has lots to offer!

A hard shell, webs between their toes, and yellow spots on reptiles, 13 kinds of amphibians, around 60 species of fi sh, the body. This description only fi ts one particular animal, and thousands of different invertebrates, such as ramshorn INFORMATION & CONTACT: NATIONAL PARK TIPS: the European pond turtle. „In the 1990s, young animals snails, great diving beetles, or harmless freshwater jellyfi sh. Website: donauauen.at • The „castle island“ at the national park centre were still extremely rare. Today, you can observe turtles of And nothing shapes it more than the river which gives the Event programme: in Orth/Donau is a great spot to observe the all ages when they bask in the sun on a tree trunk or next to park its name, the Danube. Over a distance of 36 kilome- donauauen.at/besucherinfo/ animals and plants of the area the water,” says Maria Schindler, who directs the long-term tres, the Danube is the lifeline of the national park. Free- Donau-Auen National Park Blog: (underwater observatory). conservation programme for the only turtle native in Central fl owing – more so than in many other places – it shapes blog.donauauen.at/ • The new national park lounge at the visitor Europe. the surrounding landscape. In fact, the water meadows and centre allows a look underneath the surface of Where? - At the Donau-Auen National Park; the only place wetlands only exist thanks to the force of high water and There are two visitor centres, the Danube and is an ideal place to recharge in Austria where the prehistoric reptiles are native. low water. in Orth/Donau and in Vienna. your batteries. With water surface fl uctuations of up to seven metres, the • The rubber dinghy tour is an excursion highlight. Unique water meadow landscape Danube soaks and aerates the soil, supplies it with nutri- schlossORTH National Park Centre They take place once per week in the months March Located between the cities Vienna and Bratislava, the ents, uproots trees and creates deadwood, piles up new is- A-2304 Orth/Donau till October. Donau-Auen protect one of the last large water meadow lands of sand and gravel, and washes them away elsewhere. Tel.: +43 (0) 2212/35 55 • Donau-Auen National Park – the green classroom: and wetland areas in Europe. Here, red deer are belling in In this way, the river creates a highly specialised mosaic of Email: [email protected] children and school groups can experience the water the morning fog, beavers are busily gnawing on willows and habitats that attracts many rare animals and plants. wilderness fi rst-hand in the course of special poplars, kingfi shers soar through the air, and common tree Amongst them is the black poplar, which is endangered wien-lobAU National Park House programmes. Tip: holiday and English camps are frogs give a melodic performance. all across Europe and which prefers to take root on sandy, Dechantweg 8, A-1220 Wien offered during the summer months. F. Kovac (1), K. Kracher (1) Kracher K. (1), Kovac F. The national park is inhabited by more than 30 species gravelly locations; or the sparrow-sized little ringed plover, Tel.: +43 (0) 1 4000-49495

of mammals and 100 bird species as well as eight kinds of which needs freshly-raised gravel bars in order to breed. IMAGES: Email: [email protected]

10 11 © Leitner

20 NP- Gesäuse

Gesäuse NATIONAL PARK

Mountain with a view of remarkable species to offer. „We have about 50 species The Gesäuse is one of the cradles of orchids here – amongst them lady’s slipper, bee orchid, of Austrian mountaineering. But marsh orchid.“ If you do not have a trained eye, you might the national park doesn’t offer only overlook these botanic treasures. „For that reason, we offer rugged rocks, but also tours for anyone (r.). Beauty blooms guided hikes with rangers, who will draw your attention to all around (l.). our botanic stars.“ Another celebrity of the Gesäuse National Park is the sandpiper. A bird that is actually common and widespread but that needs quite particular conditions to breed. And those conditions are hard to fi nd in Central Europe. The sandpiper migrates from the south and breeds wherever Landscape does the visitor management for us.“ Only on the habitat fi ts. Some of the few suitable nesting areas are top of the dolomite, the limestone rock faces climbers love along the rivers Enns, Johnsbach, and Hartelsbach. „The so much rise into the sky. In other areas, the Gesäuse is sandpiper breeds on gravel banks“, Andreas Hollinger in- more accessible and also has lots to offer for people who forms us. „It needs gravel areas next to rivers which are not are not too keen on mountaineering. There are numerous fl ooded due to hydroelectric plants.“ The Enns, which can activities for families and the park provides barrier-free ac- Gesäuse fl ow wildly and freely within the national park, provides cess for wheelchair users. „That is quite unusual for alpi- such conditions. „The most signifi cant breeding populati- ne landscapes,“ Andreas Hollinger, who has a hard time on of the sandpiper in Styria can be found in the Gesäu- picking a favourite season, informs us. „It is particularly National Park se – fi ve recorded pairs each year.“ This is the birds’ way impressive in May and June, when the fresh green emerges of letting us know that they are comfortable here at the and the orchids bloom,“ he says. „But autumn is gorge- Gesäuse. “They are consequently an important indicator ous, too, when the mixed forest presents its wide range of Water, forests, pastures, and rocks: these four elements characterise the which shows us that things within the nation park are all colours. And going on ski tours in the winter is something Gesäuse National Park and provide a habitat for a multitude of endemic right for them.“ quite special as well.“ species. Whether alpinists, adventurers, hikers, or families – the Gesäuse has something to offer for every visitor. Mountains for everyone NATIONAL PARK TIPS: The Gesäuse presents itself as steep and inaccessible in • The area is equally popular with strollers places. „There are areas where no human has ever ventu- and mountaineers. Barrier-free accessibility red – like really ragged dolomite cliffs where mother na- makes the national park a travel destination ture rules,“ Andreas Hollinger tells us. „The national park for all visitors. Informations: Bubbling, rushing, and untamed, the river Enns carves its „We are in the middle of an endemic hotspot,“ says And- has a dolomite base. It forms dramatic, inaccessible peaks nationalpark.co.at/de/naturerlebnis/barrierefrei way straight through two mountain ranges, the Buchstein- reas Hollinger, employee at the national park, mountaineer, – dangerous and not worthwhile for sportive activities. The • The national park is popular with white-water stock and the Hochtor Range. Their lime stone peaks reach and photographer. „We have many endemics, that is animals sports fans: enjoy the River Enns from a kayak more than 2,300 metres above sea level and put their cha- and plants which can only be found in one restricted geogra- or rafting boat. racteristically rough mark on the Gesäuse National Park in phical area, here in the Gesäuse.“ Most of them are insects INFOS & CONTACT: • The Willow Dome discovery centre, Styria. and plants. „These species have their habitat here, because, Website: nationalpark.co.at a living building made out of willow rods, But the hard shell contains a soft core. Half of the national during the last ice age, the Gesäuse provided areas which Event programme: invites children to experiment and discover. park is covered in forest; mostly spruce, fi r, and beech trees were not covered by glaciers.“ The Gesäuse is home to more nationalpark.co.at/veranstaltungen Another highlight: the world’s fi rst ‚walk-in‘ accompany hikers on their tours. In between: surprises in the endemic species than any other area in the country. „This is ecological footprint. form of springs, wet meadows, and marshes. And many char- a very special spot in Austria.“ The information offi ce in Admont is • The Gesäuse Photography School offers ming alpine pastures. They have become veritable hotspots One of the endemic species has become a kind of mas- the central information and contact beginner and advanced courses, rental of biodiversity at the Gesäuse. cot of the nation park: the dainty feathery pink, a fl ower offi ce in the Gesäuse National Park. equipment, and help and advice all year round with petals in shades of pink. „It grows right next to the Hauptstrasse 35, A-8911 Admont for anyone who wants to capture the beauty of Seen this one before? The feathered pink hiking trail leading to the Buchsteinhaus“ Andreas Hollin- (1) Hollinger A. (1), Leitner S. Tel.: +43 (0) 3613/211 60 20, nature. Information:

Species diversity plays an important role in the Gesäuse. ger says. The Gesäuse’s fl ora generally has quite a number IMAGES: Email: [email protected] nationalpark.co.at/de/fotoschule-gesaeuse

14 15 © Lammerhuber NP- Hohe Tauern

Hohe Tauern NATIONAL PARK

tifying: the repopulated birds have been successfully breeding in the wild for many years.

The diversity of the Alps At the top The bearded vulture is not nearly the only animal that The Hohe Tauern National Park feels comfortable in the Hohe Tauern National Park. Around preserves a unique alpine bio- sphere around Austria’s highest 40 breeding pairs of golden eagles and, during the summer mountain, the Großglockner. The months, up to 100 griffon vultures, soar through the air. bearded vulture lives here (r.). Groundhogs romp about the alpine grassland. Chamois and Waterfalls (l.) are part of the Hohe Alpine ibexes climb around in exposed areas, though the lat- Tauern’s charm. ter also like to stay near Kaiser Franz Joseph Höhe. The small protagonists are no less impressive. The summer meadows are covered in butterfl ies, 500 to 700 species have been re- corded along the fl ank of one high valley alone. In total, the Hohe Tauern are home to about 10,000 animal species – al- most half of the mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians of Austria’s native species. of the other approximately 60 themed trails? Visitors are spoilt How can this biodiversity be explained? – Above all by the for choice. The motto should be: consciously experience nature Hohe Tauern vertical dimension of the national park. Between the valleys with all your senses. and the highest peak one fi nds all biospheres and climatic This is also the motto of the events the national park offers zones from Central Europe to the arctic. There’s a niche for – from guided herb hikes to wildlife excursions to glacier ex- National Park everyone. ploration tours. Visitors can even book their own ranger and In combination with its path network of over 3,000 kilomet- look out for bearded vultures together. The harmless birds are Gigantic scales, impressive glaciers, a great diversity of animals and plants, as well as res, the park has lots to offer in terms of nature discovery. The rather curious and are not afraid to inspect hikers up close. glacier educational trail Innergschlöß, which leads through one The chances of encountering a vulture are particularly good in a wildlife conservation programme of Europe-wide importance are the fl agships of the of the most magnifi cent valleys of the eastern Alps, the geo trail the Kruml Valley. With its picturesque landscape and the cosy Hohe Tauern National Park. It is thanks to the park’s dedication that the remarkable route on the mountain Schareck, from where you can catch Alpine huts, the valley is a hiking paradise for the whole family. bearded vulture is once again fl ying across the entire Alpine region. Personal a glimpse of more than 100 peaks over 3,000 metres, or one Fancy a tête-à-tête with a bearded vulture? encounters with the animals are quite possible at the Hohe Tauern.

INFORMATION & CONTACT: NATIONAL PARK TIPS: A shadow moves across the alpine pasture. Maybe it is that of the Hohe Tauern literally a cool place. 551 lakes sparkle Website: hohetauern.at • All three centres of the national park host Glocknerlady, of Kilian, or of Fortuna? It is caused by almost in the midst of mountain forests and alpine pastures; lar- Event programme: nationalparkerlebnis.at permanent exhibitions which provide an ideal three-metre-wide wings gliding through the air – without a ge amounts of water cascade down cliffs all around, such introduction to the Hohe Tauern single fl ap, seemingly effortlessly. We are talking about the as the Krimml Waterfalls, the highest waterfalls in Europe. There are three national park centres: in Mittersill • If you want to encounter groundhogs, golden bearded vulture, the largest bird of prey in Europe. (Salzburg), Mallnitz (Carinthia), and Matrei (East Tyrol). eagles, chamois, Alpine ibex, and bearded vultures, That the animal is fl ying again is extraordinary, since it was The return of he bearded vultures we recommend the guided tour „The BIG FIVE of eradicated at the end of the 19th century. People assumed In 1986, this phenomenal landscape provided the setting Mittersill National Park Centre the Hohe Tauern National Park“. the birds would prey on lambs, chamois, and even children. for the start of one of the most successful wildlife conservation Gerlosstr. 18, A-5730 Mittersill • You’ll have the greatest chances of encountering In reality, bearded vultures have an appetite for quite diffe- programmes in Europe. About 100 years after their eradica- Tel.: +43 (0) 6562/40849-0 bearded vultures in the Kruml Valley in the Rauris rent things. As scavengers, they live on whatever others leave tion, four young bearded vultures were released into the wild Email: [email protected] municipal area. During the guided tour „Valley of the behind; preferably bones. In the Hohe Tauern National Park, again. In the Kruml Valley in the Rauris area – better known as Vultures“ you might also catch a glimpse of griffon the largest nature reserve in Central Europe and the Alps, valley of the vultures today – the soared into the sky to establish National Park Centre Mallnitz vultures, monk vultures, golden eagles, and other the impressive birds of prey have found a new, worthy home. the nucleus of a new, Pan-Alpine population. A-9822 Mallnitz 36 wild animals. The 1,856-square-kilometre-big Hohe Tauern National The Hohe Tauern National Park, which was leading the Tel.: +43 (0) 4784 701 • The glacier hikes, for instance under the motto Park extends over three federal states – Carinthia, Salz- way in the vulture project from the beginning, cooperates with Email: [email protected] „journey to the arctic“, are a very special experience. burg, and Tyrol – and offers visitors a range of extremes. many partners all across the Alpine region. Until today, the na- The guided tour to the Pasterze Glacier is a classic. 266 mountain peaks, amongst them the Großglockner, to- tional park has returned 59 birds to the wild, amongst them National Park Centre Matrei • „Rent a Ranger“ – rangers of the national wer over the region at over 3,000 metres above sea level. Glocknerlady, Kilian, and Fortuna. Around 25 bearded vultu- Kirchplatz 2, A-9971 Matrei i. O. park can be booked for smaller-group The glaciers are just as impressive: around 300 of them, res currently inhabit the local skies; in the entire Alps there are Tel.: +43 (0) 4875/5161-10 individual adventure tours with particular

including the Pasterze – Austria’s longest glacier – make already about 220 of them. Something that’s particularly gra- IMAGES: K. Dapra (1), Petrikat (1) Email: [email protected] thematic focuses.

18 19

FOTOS: XXXXXXXXXXXXXX 19 © Mayrhofer NP- Kalkalpen

Kalkalpen NATIONAL PARK

Welcome to the woods mals,“ Erich Mayrhofer says. „Amongst the so called ‘Big The woods characterise the 5’ are the golden eagle, which is quite typical for the area, Kalkalpen National Park and make the lynx, which has returned to us thanks to repopulation forest hikes (l.) up to the mountain programmes, the red deer, as well as two animals whose pastures a unique experience. habitat depends on the beech: the white-backed woodpe- The shy lynx (r.) has returned to cker and the Rosalia longicorn, a seven- to eight-centimet- the national park. re-long beetle.“ The lynx makes things a bit more diffi cult for visitors than the golden eagle and stays hidden. „But it leaves clues in the form of scent marks or remains of prey,“ Erich Mayerhofer says. „Our experts provide insights into the animal’s way of life as it quietly roams its territory.“

The Hohe Nock mountain is the highest point in the Kalk- INFORMATION & CONTACT: alpen National Park and the highest peak of the Sengsen- Website: kalkalpen.at gebirge, a northern outlier of the Limestone Alps. „Due to Kalkalpen Event programme: kalkalpen.at/system/web/ the altitude, there is lots to see and to experience, all year veranstaltung.aspx round.“ The forest at the Kalkalpen National Park begins relatively far down, so access to the area is easy. „Along National Park There is one national park centre in Molln and Reich- the river Reichraming into the Hintergebirge, for instance, raming, respectively, as well as the visitor centre at where there is a cycle path alongside an old forest railway. the Wurbauerkogel, the National Park Lodge Villa You can go deep into the area, here, with a minimal eleva- Trees are the most crucial feature of the Kalkalpen National Park. They are part of its his- Sonnwend, and the Hengstpasshütte info centre in tion gain.“ Exploring the park on a mountain bike is, how- tory, provide a home for rare animals, and characterise the beautiful landscape. And the Rosenau (self-catering hut). ever, rewarding as well. „The 21 managed alpine huts at paths through the wilderness of the forest lead to alpine pastures and mountain peaks. about 1000 to 1400 metres above sea level are particularly Molln national park centre popular. Around half of them sell food and drinks,” Erich Nationalpark Allee 1, A-4591 Molln Mayrhofer says. Islands in a sea of trees, whose soundscape Tel.: +43 (0) 7584/36 51 is beyond comparison. The path to the top of the mountain Trämpl leads past continues. „The area is characterised by ravines, deep val- Email: [email protected] colourful alpine meadows and beech trees. At more than leys, a combination of rocks, forests, and summit areas. A 1,400 metres above sea level, one has a great view over one total of 480 kilometres of forest streams run through the Ennstal visitor centre NATIONAL PARK TIPS: of the biggest forest areas in Austria, the Reichraminger park, up to three metres of snow are common during the Eisenstraße 75, A-4462 Reichraming • The national park is located between the Enns Hintergebirge range. There are no transportation routes or winters – including avalanches and snow breakage. Even Tel.: +43 (0) 7584/36 51 valley, the Steyr valley, and the Haller Mauern settlements here – only lots of space for mother nature. The during the summer time, we have large amounts of precipi- Email: [email protected] range. The Gesäuse National Park is only 8.5 Kalkalpen National Park is her host and the mixed beech tation, fl oods, and storms.“ kilometres away. forest is its most important ally – best marvelled at from Wurbauerkogel Panorama Tower • There are three main points of access to the the Trämpl. The land of the golden eagle Dambach 152, A-4580 Windischgarsten national park: the Steyr valley, the Windischgarsten In some places, the forest has been forced back by ava- From the top of the Trämpl, the many streams are only Tel.: +43 (0) 7562/200 46 valley, and the Enns valley. The various and diverse lanches, in others, the wind has uprooted trees. It used to vaguely perceptible through the trees. They traverse the fo- Email: [email protected] hiking areas of the national park can be accessed be the basis for intensive forestry – old shelters and over- rest like a mosaic, structuring the entire landscape of the via these points. grown paths still remind us of its past. The woodland is national park, which is located between the Steyr valley, Hengstpass visitor hut • On Sundays during the summer – from mid- continuously transforming back into wilderness where the Enns valley, and the Haller Mauern range at the border A-4581 Rosenau Nr. 60 July to early October – the national park hiking deadwood is left lying on the forest ground and wildlife can to Styria. The mountain torrents are the source of life for Tel.: +43 (0) 664/88 43 45 71 bus runs from the bus terminal in Steyr to fl ourish. 400 hectare of pristine nature, in the strict sense of many animals, amongst them 170 vertebrate species and Email: [email protected] Reichraming, through the Hintergebirge to the the word, and home to the oldest beech tree with 525 years. 115 types of birds living here in the Reichraminger Hinter- Hengstpass, and back. Bicycle transport is free. „We have a mixture of different types of beech forests of gebirge and the Sengsengebirge. Villa Sonnwend National Park Lodge • There are three bivouac points at the national various ages and compositions,“ the director of the national A golden eagle soars through the sky. At least three bree- Mayrwinkl 80, A-4575 Roßleithen park. F. Sieghartsleitner (2) F. park Erich Mayrhofer says. „This diversity has to do with ding pairs have found a home at the Kalkalpen. „These Tel.: +43 (0) 7562/20 591 • Its 32 different forest types are a highlight of

the many different infl uences the forest is exposed to,“ he forests provide a home and shelter to particularly rare ani- IMAGES: Email: [email protected] the Kalkalpen National Park.

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FOTOS: XXXXXXXXXXXXXX © Schneider

24 NP- Hohe Tauern

Neusiedler See – Seewinkel NATIONAL PARK

Vast beauty Every season has, moreover, its very special appeal. „You The many salt water lakes at the Neusiedler can experience nature all year long,” Alois Lang states. See - Seewinkel National Park turn into bree- „The national park is located low and it is fl at; you do not ding and roosting places for migrating birds need any climbing assistance and there is no winter closu- every year. The unique landscape in the east of Austria can be explored by bicycle. Or with re due to snow.” In the springtime, when the water levels binoculars (l.). A welcome visitor: the black- are high and the meadows and pastures are still fl ooded in winged stilt (r.) many places, there is something new happening every day: the fi rst goslings, breeding wading birds, frogs, blooming grassland. Animals are courting and hatching. And spring is also the spawning season of the various amphibians, such as the rare green toad with its distinctive colour or the de- licate Danube crested newt. biggest ice skating rink. Despite most animals and plants The warmer it gets during the summer, the lower the going into hibernation, some species endure the cold wind: water levels sink. Animals withdraw, plants stop growing. white-tailed eagles and common buzzards, seagulls and Where there were fl ooded areas in spring, there are now ducks, and singing birds can be seen in droves; and so- salt layers. In August, the fi rst birds begin their migration metimes bizarre snow drift on top of that. „Many visitors Neusiedler See - Seewinkel to the south. It is the time of the bee-eaters, dragonfl ies, are not aware of the national park’s size”, Alois Lang says. grasshoppers, of fl ocks of starlings, shanks, and countless „One tour is not enough if you want to see everything.“ other animals, which can be best observed during the hours Those who are prepared to dedicate time will be rewarded: National Park of the early morning or late evening. with fragile, beautiful landscapes and a very special fl ora and fauna. The Neusiedler See - Seewinkel National Park knows how to keep Hotspot for migrating birds its true beauty concealed. It only discloses it to those who give Until October – when temperatures of up to 20°C are something valuable in return: time. If you look closely, you will be still possible –, bird migration can be observed. The ‚winter geese‘ and many other winter visitors – shrikes, hen harri- rewarded: this is a hotspot for biodiversity. ers, rough-legged buzzards – start arriving at the Neusiedler See - Seewinkel National Park. The sea aster is blooming NATIONAL PARK TIPS: and covers the area in its purple colour. When temperatu- • The 300-square-kilometre-big, cross-border res drop below zero, the Lake Neusiedl turns into Europe’s national park is located between the eastern Alpine The distinctive call of the Eurasian bittern echoes over the inhabitants of the reed belt, the meadows, pastures, and salt foothills and the Little Hungarian Plain. reed belt. The sounds of the Northern lapwing coming from lakes of the Neusiedler See – Seewinkel National Park. The • The barrier-free visitor centre in Illmitz includes a the wet meadows are reminiscent of computer games from hotter it gets, the further the water recedes. INFORMATION & CONTACT: 12-metre-high tower, which provides a great view the 1980s and the Eurasian sky lark trills like a didgeridoo Website: nationalpark-neusiedlersee-seewinkel.at over the Little Hungarian Plain. in its fl ight. Unimpressed, the avocet stoically searches the Landscape with substance Event Programme: • Excursions take place with a minimum of six shallow water of the salt water lake for food with its charac- The national park around Europe’s westernmost step- nationalpark-neusiedlersee- participants all year round and last at least teristic beak. Around 340 bird species live in Austria’s only pe lake is considered one of the most biodiverse national seewinkel.at/programmexkursionen.html three hours. steppe national park, the Neusiedler See – Seewinkel Nati- park in Austria. The reason behind this is its low altitude – a • Canoe tours for up to 10 participants and solar onal Park. Located in the east of the country, it protects an feature that can have a benefi cial effect on species diversi- The information centre of the Austrian part of the boat trips on Lake Neusiedl for up to 20 people can about 300-square-kilometre area together with the Hunga- ty. „You look at the landscape,“ Alois Lang says, „and you Neusiedler See – Seewinkel National Park is the single take place at any time, if booked in time rian Fertö-Hanság Nemzeti Park in a cross-border coope- think you do not see very much.“ The biodiversity of the point of contact for all visitor and is the starting point for (three weeks prior) ration. Approximately 90 square kilometres of it are located Neusiedler See - Seewinkel National Park is well hidden, it’s all activities offered in the conservation zone. • The reed belt’s rich variety of bird species on Austrian soil between Weiden am See and Apetlon. in the detail. The shortest guided hike through parts of the Hauswiese, A-7142 Illmitz can be observed from the newly built jetty at When the sun is shining, when it is dry and temperatures area takes three hours. There are so many different habitats Tel.: +43 (0) 2175/3442, Fax: -4 Illmitz lake resort in the course of an excursion

reach 30°C, that is defi nitely bad weather; at least for the to discover, so many different animals and plants to observe. IMAGES: Archiv NP Neusiedler See - Seewinkel (2) Email: [email protected] taking place at dawn or nightfall. XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

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28 NP- Thayatal

Thayatal NATIONAL PARK

Life by the river Tracking down wildcats in the Thayatal forests yourself will, The valley of the Thaya has carved itself admittedly, be diffi cult – particularly during the day. The deep into the landscape and invites wildcat hiking trail is, however, a great way to gain insights visitors to explore i ts natural treasures into the natural habitat of the animals. (l.). The rare and shy wildcat (r.) lives New visitors to the Thayatal should also go see the land- here in the forest. mark of the national park, the 378-metre-high meander cut- off. From that point, you get a good idea of the valleys cha- racteristics with the many bends and meanders of the River Thaya.

Cross-border nature conservation Cut up to 150 metres deep into the rock, the river loops batteries – the restaurant prepares local specialities – and along narrow meadow strips and steep slope forests full enjoy the nature around you. The national park can be ex- of beech and oak trees; one of the last semi-natural valley plored as intensively as you want via six hiking trails and landscapes in Central Europe. A true gem of nature right at two bike trails; from a short stroll to easily accessible obser- Thayatal the border to the Czech Republic. Fortunately, it does not vation points to demanding long-distance trails. stop there. Those who want to get to know the Thayatal even more If you cross the Thaya bridge in Hardegg – Austria’s smal- closely should do so together with a ranger – explore the National Park lest town with around 90 inhabitants – you do not only go area, get information about current nature-related issues at from one country to another but also from one conservation fi rst hand, or fi nd out how scientists tracked down the wild- It may be the smallest national park in Austria in terms of size, but it is the area to the next. That would have been impossible during cats during your own night hike. greatest one in many respects. The Thayatal National Park protects one of the the era of the iron curtain, but nowadays it is reality. The And do not forget to visit ‚Frieda‘ and ‚Carlo‘. The two Thayatal National Park and the Czech Národní park Podyjí wildcats, which live at the national park’s centre as am- last semi-natural valley landscapes in Central Europe, provides a habitat to an are collaborating across borders. They may have their own bassadors of their species, are the undisputed stars of the astonishing diversity of species, and caused a nature sensation with the independent administrations, but they share the same goals: Thayatal. With 450 square metres, their home is the lar- rediscovery of the European wildcat. And it transcends borders. „For instance, we coordinate management plans, coopera- gest wildcat enclosure in Austria. Do not underestimate the te in research projects, and have a common responsibility small ones! regarding inspection rounds,“ Christina Übl of the Thaya- tal National Park explains. In addition, cross-border events 2007 was the year of a veritable sensation. The European sun on warm stones, and wildcats sneak through the thicket. and excursions are core elements of the collaboration. wildcat, which had been thought to have gone extinct, show- It had disappeared off the radar for decades, but the national The national park centre near Hardegg is the starting NATIONAL PARK TIPS: ed us that it was very much alive. The animal was redisco- park’s scientists wanted to know more. After all, the natural point for all excursions and the ideal place to begin your • At the new exhibition „Natur-Geschichten“ vered in the forests of the Thayatal National Park. deciduous forests of the Thaya valley satisfy all habitat needs exploration of the Thayatal. Here, you can recharge your („Natural histories“) you can explore the Thaya Austria’s smallest national park is located along the border of the shy mouser. Hollowed-out deadwood, overhanging valley via tablets. A large aerial photo highlights 15 to the Czech Republic in the very north of Lower Austria’s rocks, and stone runs are suitable lairs; forest glades with attractions and provides information, pictures, Waldviertel (Forest Quarter) area. With 13.3 square kilome- meadows and moderate winters ensure food supply all year INFORMATION & CONTACT: and videos. tres, it might be modest in size, but the national park is a round. Website: np-thayatal.at • You can observe the two wildcats Frieda and Carlo at frontrunner regarding biodiversity. In just a single day, 22 In order to fi nd out for sure whether there were any wild- Event programme: regular show feeding. scientists discovered 1,188 animal and plant species in an cats left, the national park had to resort to a trick. Lures – np-thayatal.at/de/pages/events.aspx • The wildcat night hikes are especially popular. only 75-hectare-big area. More than 950 species of butter- wooden stakes covered in valerian – were set up all around Thayatal National Park Blog: blog.np-thayatal.at/ Join a ranger on their patrol through the forest of the fl ies, more than 100 bird species, and 22 of the 28 native bat the nature reserve. And it worked. Attracted by the scent, the The national park centre is located between national park, check the wooden lures, and witness species inhabit the park. wildcats rubbed against the wood and left clear evidence: fur Merkersdorf and Hardegg. a night time feeding. and, with that, DNA. The DNA analysis fi nally confi rmed it; • Six e-bikes and four 7-gear bikes can be rented at Tracking the wildcat there are wildcats in the Thayatal! It is diffi cult to tell how A-2082 Hardegg, Österreich the national park centre. NPTT D. Manhart (1), Ch. Übl (1) Ch. Manhart (1), D. NPTT Rare crayfi sh can be found here, black storks stalk through many of them there are, but twelve fur samples of the noc- Tel.: +43 (0) 2949/7005–0 • Eight caravan sites are available at national park turnal animals have been identifi ed so far. the water looking for prey, green lizards lay basking in the IMAGES: Email: offi [email protected] centre.

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