Ötscher-Dürrenstein (3229)
Austria, Europe
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Year of last assessment: 2009
National site name: Ötscher-Dürrenstein-Gebiet
Central coordinates: Latitude: 47.8333, Longitude: 15.1167
System: terrestrial
Elevation (m): 391 to 1893
Area of KBA (km2): 412.61234
Protected area coverage (%): 99.70
KBA classification: Regional
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: This area of the Alps is characterized by a karst landscape with steep limestone cliffs and deep river gorges. Mixed forests (montane zone) and conifer forests (subalpine zone) dominate. Steep slopes have prevented widespread intensive forestry but in many places original forest has been replaced by monocultures of Picea. Above the treeline are small areas of alpine meadows. The valleys contain a few important raised bogs. The area is used for forestry and tourism.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance that was identified using previously established criteria and thresholds for the identification of Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) and for which available data indicate that it does not meet global KBA criteria and thresholds set out in the Global Standard.
Additional biodiversity: The site is important for species found in montane and subalpine forest, rocky areas and cliffs
Habitats
Land use: agriculture (5%) | forestry (80%) | not utilised (15%)
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Forest | 90 | |
| Grassland | 5 | |
| Rocky Areas(e.g., inland cliffs, mountain peaks) | 5 |
Threats
Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: Intensive forestry is the main threat to the IBA. Recreation, particularly winter sports and canoeing, causes habitat loss and disturbance. Hunting is widespread and may affect grouse (Tetraonidae) populations.