Trittsteinbiotope | Imagefilm - Connecting Forests for Biodiversity

Nearly half of Austria's national territory is covered by forests, providing habitat for about two-thirds of known native animal, fungal, and plant species. However, intensive land use, land sealing, and the expansion of rail and road networks lead to fragmentation and isolation of forests. This limits and prevents species from migrating and exchanging life forms between different habitats, resulting in negative impacts on biodiversity in Austrian forests.

To counteract, stepping stones can serve as a means of connecting isolated habitats. Similar to stepping stones in a river, they facilitate the migration of numerous animal and plant species, increasing their chances of survival, particularly in the face of progressing climate change. For many species, these stepping stones serve as important resting or retreat areas.

The Austrian Research Centre for Forests (BFW) invites forest owners to participate in the "Trittsteinbiotope" program and provide potential areas for habitat connectivity. These areas are taken out of management, scientifically investigated, and maintained through habitat connectivity, providing valuable habitats. The program is a partnership and areas are jointly selected and established.