Animal problems in Vienna: nets fall, beaver complaints and injuries!

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Leopoldstadt is struggling with animal problems: injuries caused by protective nets, beaver conflicts and planned improvements to the ÖBB.

Leopoldstadt kämpft mit Tierproblemen: Verletzungen durch Schutznetze, Biberkonflikte und geplante Verbesserungen der ÖBB.
Leopoldstadt is struggling with animal problems: injuries caused by protective nets, beaver conflicts and planned improvements to the ÖBB.

Animal problems in Vienna: nets fall, beaver complaints and injuries!

In Vienna, the connecting railway bridge over the Danube Canal between Leopoldstadt and Landstrasse is currently causing animal problems. Netting was originally installed to protect wildlife and reduce pollution from pigeon droppings. But this net has proven to be dangerous for birds and other wildlife. According to reports from MyDistrict It is increasingly leading to injuries and even deaths among animals. Holes in the net in particular allow animals to get underneath where they can injure themselves.

ÖBB, which is responsible for the bridge and the network, is aware of the problems and has already taken action. Damage to the net was recently repaired and live traps were set up to save injured animals. Thanks to expert advice, net funnels should also act as escape options for the animals. However, MA49, responsible for forestry and agriculture, has not yet been able to confirm the animal deaths because the pigeons remain behind the net.

Beavers in Vienna – freshwater engineers with potential for conflict

Another animal topic that is a topic of discussion are the numerous beavers in Vienna. It is estimated that between 380 and 400 of these unique animals live in the city's natural waters. While they are often considered shy, beavers can certainly get used to people. Current reports from residents mention increasing damage caused by beaver felling. This seems easy to ignore for the benefit they provide. Loud Deutschlandfunk Nova Beavers actively contribute to shaping their habitats by building dams.

These dams hold back water, slow down runoff and thus contribute to flood and climate protection, while at the same time promoting biodiversity. Allegations that the rodents endanger other species or disrupt salmon migration are untenable. However, in the young animal phase, which lasts from May to August, it is advised to keep your distance from the beavers and to keep dogs on a leash.

Prevention and solutions

The Vienna city administration has recognized the problem and recommends measures to minimize conflicts with the beavers. This includes mechanical protection of trees and non-toxic protective coatings against beaver damage. Unfortunately, the amount of damage has not yet been recorded. However, MA49 documents reports from the population in order to get a comprehensive overview of the situation.

Overall, it is clear that the challenges that the wildlife in Vienna poses are complex and require a careful and, above all, animal-friendly approach when it comes to dealing with these important natural actors.