Vienna Wildlife Service urges natural gardening to aid winter survival

The Vienna Wildlife Service has issued a call for residents to maintain natural gardens to assist local wildlife during the transition into the winter season. To provide animals with necessary shelter and energy reserves, officials recommend leaving piles of leaves and deadwood in gardens, as these serve as vital habitats.

Specific guidance includes keeping dogs on leashes in sensitive areas and limiting the use of robotic lawnmowers and brush cutters to daylight hours. Residents are also advised to check work areas for animals before using machinery and to provide fresh water in gardens.

Local species utilize different survival strategies: hedgehogs, bats, and dormice enter true hibernation, while squirrels and badgers enter a state of winter rest. Other animals, such as deer, foxes, wild boars, and birds, remain active throughout the cold months. The service requests that citizens report any injured or malnourished wildlife via their dedicated contact numbers.