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Biodiversity in Austria's Regions
The most beautiful natural sites with species-rich fauna and flora.

Biodiversity is crucial for the ecological balance. Austria is taking important measures to protect the diversity of species in natural habitats.

Austria's biodiversity is reflected in the variety of its Alps, forests, moorlands, rivers and lakes. These natural landscapes provide habitats for a rich range of fauna and flora and shape the country's distinctive natural diversity. Every species plays a role in the ecosystem, contributing to pollination, natural pest control and ecological stability. Where biodiversity is high, these processes can function particularly reliably, supporting essential natural functions such as soil fertility, water balance and forest health.

Protected areas such as national parks and moorland reserves help safeguard rare animal and plant species and preserve habitats for the long term. Anyone exploring Austria's landscapes on foot can see biodiversity all around them, from alpine meadows and forests to lakes and rivers. Each region tells its own story of nature, shaping the character and way of life of the country.

Protecting species for future generations

Austria and its regions are committed to protecting and sustainably managing biodiversity to maintain nature’s delicate balance. Preserving biodiversity is, after all, essential for the well-being of future generations.

Fauna and flora: Harmonious coexistence

Fauna: Diversity of wildlife

Austria boasts a captivating array of Central European wildlife, including roe deer, stags, hares, pheasants, foxes, badgers, martens, and partridges. In the Alpine regions, you’ll encounter chamois, marmots, eagles, and ibex.

The Pannonian region is renowned for its birdlife, particularly around the reed belt of Lake Neusiedl, where herons, spoonbills, avocets, and wild geese thrive. Austria’s pristine rivers and lakes also provide vital habitats for fish and amphibians.

Austria's fauna

Flora: Diversity of the plant world

Austria's flora is remarkably diverse, boasting around 3,500 species of ferns and flowering plants, thanks to its varied landscapes and climates. Nearly half of the country is covered by forests, predominantly oak, beech, and spruce, with larches and stone pines flourishing at higher altitudes.

The northern Alpine foothills are marked by lush grasslands, while the Pannonian region features distinctive steppe heaths. The Alpine flora is particularly striking, showcasing iconic species such as gentian, edelweiss, and arnica.

Austria's flora

Biodiversity on the water

Biodiversity in the forest and in the mountains

National parks in Austria

How does Austria protect and promote biodiversity?

Creating protected areas

Protected areas play a vital role in preserving habitats, plant and animal species, as well as Austria's natural resources. Where human impact is minimal or sustainable, nature thrives. These areas include national parks, nature parks, biosphere reserves, and the Dürrenstein-Lassingtal Wilderness Area, often referred to as Austria's "jungle."

National parks and nature parks

Restoring wild river landscapes

One of the many ecosystems worth protecting is wild river landscapes. However, some waterways need to be restored to their natural state to ensure biodiversity. A successful example of conservation is the Isel River in Tirol, which was designated a Natura 2000 protected area in 2015.

Pleasure hiking on the Iseltrail

Protecting moorland landscapes

Moorland landscapes are home to an incomparable diversity of species. Moors also play a central role in the landscape water balance and as effective CO₂ reservoirs. With the Peatland Strategy Austria 2030+ is working sustainably on the conservation and restoration of wetlands.

Tannermoor nature reserve

Managing Alpine pastures sustainably

The history of Austrian Alpine pasture farming goes back several hundred years. To this day, this special ecosystem creates a balance between humans and animals. Species-rich Alpine pastures store water better and prevent erosion.

Alpine hut villages
Protecting nature and biodiversity

What can we do to help protect biodiversity?

  • Stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing sensitive habitats such as moorlands and wetlands.

  • Observe animals and plants from a distance and do not take anything from nature.

  • Choose regional and seasonal products – this supports local value creation and can help reduce transport distances.

  • Be mindful of your waste: take everything you bring with you back home.

  • Opt for trains, cycling or walking – this can reduce emissions and land use compared to travelling by car.

  • Join guided nature tours or citizen science projects, such as bird or amphibian monitoring.

  • Respect the rules in forests and around lakes: no open fires outside designated areas.

Travel sustainablyNational park rangers

FAQs

Austria is home to a rich variety of habitats – from the Alps and forests to lakes and moorlands – supporting a wide range of animal and plant species, including rare and endangered ones. This biodiversity ensures stable ecosystems and forms the basis for clean water, fertile soils and healthy forests. Protecting and preserving biodiversity is a key priority in Austria, helping to safeguard natural habitats and maintain ecological balance.

Austria focuses on protected areas, river restoration, moorland conservation and biodiversity-friendly land use. The Biodiversity Strategy Austria 2030+ sets out clear goals:

  • Connecting and protecting valuable habitats

  • Restoring key ecosystems

  • Reducing land sealing

  • Strengthening legal frameworks

  • Funding biodiversity-focused projects

  • Raising awareness across society and the economy

  • Expanding the scientific basis for conservation

Everyone can contribute to preserving Austria's biodiversity, as our actions directly affect ecosystems. Here are five tips from the University of Vienna:

  • Consume less: thoughtful purchasing reduces waste and conserves resources

  • Reduce meat consumption: eat less meat and choose carefully to support biodiversity

  • Buy organic, seasonal and regional products: environmentally conscious choices with shorter transport routes

  • Pay more for quality: support high-quality, preferably organic products

  • Reduce your ecological footprint: for example by travelling by train or avoiding plastic

Biodiversity underpins life on Earth – around 1.74 million species of animals, plants, fungi and microorganisms have been identified so far. Together, they keep our ecosystems in balance.

The greater the diversity of species, the healthier ecosystems tend to be. When ecosystems function well, essential processes such as pollination, natural pest control, protection against natural hazards and the provision of clean drinking water are maintained.

This is why Austria and its regions implement a wide range of measures to protect and promote biodiversity. Preserving it is essential for future generations – both to benefit from natural resources and to enjoy nature as a place for relaxation.

Austria's biodiversity is particularly visible in its national parks, such as Hohe Tauern National Park, Donau-Auen National Park and Kalkalpen National Park. Nature parks, biosphere reserves, moorlands and alpine pastures also offer valuable insights into native ecosystems.

Nature trails and ranger-led tours provide opportunities to experience biodiversity up close in forests, along waterways and in mountain regions.

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