Wildcat revival: Two cats conquer the Thayatal National Park!

Wildcat revival: Two cats conquer the Thayatal National Park!

In the Thayatal National Park in Lower Austria, there is an important event: Today two wild cats (chat Sauvage) are released, which were previously in a French sanctuary. The wild cats should not only support the ecological balance in the national park, but also increase the tourist attractiveness of the region. Particular attention is paid to telemetry, since both animals are equipped with GPS and radio stations in order to pursue their movements. State Councilor Stephan Pernkopf and national park director Christian Übl accompany the release and emphasize the importance of this project.

The decision to exerpit is made on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Thayatal National Park. Historically, the wildcat in Austria was considered extinct in Austria. It was only through diverse genetic evidence and intensive research that the species in the Thayatal could be rediscovered. As early as 2003, photos of a wildcat on a tree near Groß-Pertholz aroused interest in this mysterious species. National park director Gübl then initiated the first research project on the wildcat in 2006, the goal of which was to attract the animals with valerian lock sticks and to analyze them genetically.

wild cats and the meaning for the region

The release marks a significant step in the reconstruction of the wildcat population in Austria. From 2006 to 2020, numerous evidence was confirmed by photo traps and genetic analyzes. The Thayatal National Park, together with the Wachau and Carinthia, is now a hot spot for the spread of wild cats in Austria. The legal and ecological framework at this location have proven to be ideal.

The wildcat stands in the national park for awakening wilderness and extraordinary nature experiences. Your habitat extends over intact networking that is essential for the preservation of populations. In the wildcat camp that offers modern accommodation comfort, groups of up to 64 people are welcome. Guests are offered an unforgettable nature experience, far from everyday stress and in the immediate vicinity of the National Park House. The camp is also environmentally certified and connected to the public transport network, which makes it attractive for environmentally conscious travelers.

research and maintenance of the wild cats

In recent years, research into a wild cat has been steadily promoted. Wildcat expert Peter Gerngross has analyzed genetic samples from recent years and was able to identify a total of six individuals. These analyzes indicate close relationships, which suggests a small but possibly stabilizing population.

By combining targeted research and today's release of the wild cats, those responsible hope for long -term stabilization and maintenance of the species in the Thayatal National Park. The region is therefore not only a retreat for the wild animals, but also a location for sustainable tourism that strengthens awareness of nature worth protecting

Krone reports that the release is an important step to maintain wildcat population in Austria, while the np Thayatal emphasizes the special offers for tourists. In addition, National Park Austria Interesting historical reviews and data on the wild cats in the national park.