Field hamster in Simmering: Conflict with gardeners and protective measures

Field hamster in Simmering: Conflict with gardeners and protective measures

In Simmering, the relocation of around 150 field hamsters, which were relocated during the renovation work at the Favoriten clinic, is causing discussions among local vegetable gardeners. The protected animals were brought to a new area of ​​the Vienna City Gardens directly in front of the Neubuilding Palace, where there are also commercial gardens. These gardens, which are also legally protected, pose an additional problem for farmers as their crops are threatened.

The organic farm operator Leo Prohaska reports initial difficulties. Two neighboring gardeners complained about damaged carrots. Prohaska, who acts in his role as deputy chairman of the Viennese gardeners, sees the settlement of the field hamsters as an ill-considered decision. In addition to the damaged plants, he also cites concerns about an adjacent children's playground and worries about the safety of the children, as the hamsters can bite if threatened.

Regulatory measures

The landscape ecologist responsible for the resettlement, Thomas Proksch, is trying to smooth things over. He assures that the field hamsters are monitored and fed regularly. To keep the animals away from the gardens, natural food sources such as bushes were planted in the hamster area. This way the hamsters won't be tempted to damage the gardeners' crops.

To prevent further damage, a wooden fence was erected around the area to keep dogs out. Proksch also explains that the legal regulations do not allow animals to be kept in closed terrariums. With regard to the safety of children, he emphasizes that no bite incidents have been documented in Vienna over the last few decades, despite the high number of European hamsters.

Political reactions and future prospects

The political relevance of the issue will also play a role in the coming days. Luis William from the ÖVP plans to submit a request to the district council at the next district council meeting to find out more about possible solutions. “It’s important not to leave the gardeners alone,” emphasizes William.

District leader Thomas Steinhart (SPÖ) was only informed about the choice of location after the resettlement. He reports that no complaints have been received from residents so far. This is also confirmed by the responsible MA 42.

Prohaska hopes that the city of Vienna may be able to find better places for the field hamsters in need of settlement that would be more suitable. The soil conditions at the new location are ideal, but the animals could have been settled earlier in the area in front of Neubuilding Castle without putting the gardeners in this unpleasant position.