Model region for promoting and developing sustainabiliy

Invasive species such as Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica ) are on the advance in the Wienerwald. Owing to their dominance and rapid spread, the diversity of plant species and thus the resilience of native ecosystems is reduced.

All 20 native species of amphibians in Austria are on the Red List of Endangered Species for Austria and are strictly protected.

Hazel dormice are difficult to find, as they are no bigger than a thumb and live mostly in dense undergrowth. Its secretive life style means that there is hardly anything known about this small mammal.

Since 2007 the re-introduction of the Ural owl has been conducted under the guidance of a team of researchers of the Forschungsinstitut für Wildtierkunde und Ökologie (Research Institute for Game Biology and Ecology) of the Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien (Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna).

Drystone walling, i.e. the building of walls in which stones are laid and wedged without the use of cement, is a craft that has existed for hundreds of years.