In Raumberg-Gumpenstein, many national and international projects on the subject of wolves being carried out, and it is the seat of the Austrian Centre for Bear, Wolf and Lynx.
Rebecca Rau from the Austrian Wolf Centre presented the tasks and activities of this inter-state institution and reported on developments in the wolf population, including current figures on livestock depredation incidents. In 2024, a total of 96 wolves were identified in Austria using DNA analysis.
There were eight packs in Austria in 2024, three of which were reproducing, and 13 wolves were removed from the country. In 2024, 726 livestock depredation incidents (killed, injured, and missing animals) were recorded, with fewer sheep and more cattle being killed compared to previous years.
Thomas Guggenberger presented the significance and challenges of pasture farming and the 8,000 alpine pastures managed in Austria. The decline in the number of animals on these pastures makes their preservation more difficult and leads to significant losses in biodiversity.
Livestock protection measures such as guided grazing management through herding , as well as practical measures like fencing and livestock guardian dogs, were the focus of Maria Naynar's presentation. As an experienced shepherdess and scientist, she provided a highly authentic perspective, thereby generating considerable interest.
The demand for financial and social security for shepherds and the professional shepherding training offered in Raumberg-Gumpenstein were particularly well-received by the parliamentarians.
Reinhard Huber reported on practical measures for livestock protection and on specific actions taken in the event of livestock depredation. The annual costs for comprehensive livestock protection measures for sheep amount to more than €120 per animal, significantly exceeding the income generated by sheep farming. The delegation was impressed by the projects and results, as well as by the opportunities offered by the Raumberg-Gumpenstein location with its combination of teaching and research.
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