Austria's Most Popular Wild Animal: Hedgehog Overtakes Fox

Sixty percent of respondents (i.e., six out of ten people) stated that the hedgehog is their favourite animal. In the list of Austria's most popular wild animals, the hedgehog takes first place, followed by the fox with 51 percent and the hare with 47 percent.

Austria's Most Popular Wild Animal: Hedgehog Ahead of Fox and Hare

The study provides fascinating insights into the preferences of Austria's residents and shows that less common animals such as the mole, badger, partridge, and pheasant are still appreciated. The exact results of the market research investigation:

Extreme Weather Conditions Affect Swallows

In particular, the swallow had to struggle with extreme weather conditions this year. Exceptionally heavy rainfall, storms, and cool temperatures in September resulted in a dramatic loss of food resources, as flying insects, their primary food, were hardly active. Especially in Lower Austria, many weakened swallows were found on the ground. Thanks to the commitment of Animal Protection Austria, up to 7,000 swallows could be cared for in the "Swallow House". "It was a race against time," reports Stephan Scheidl from Animal Protection Austria. "Without the support of our teams and many volunteer helpers, many birds would not have survived." With careful care, the animals were stabilised and can now resume their journey.

Animal Protection Austria Advocates for Wild Animals in Austria

In 2024, hedgehogs also came into focus: Never before have so many hedgehogs sought support from Animal Protection Austria. About 250 animals, too weak for rewilding, are spending the winter in the animal shelter. There they are carefully cared for and prepared for their return to the wild. Throughout the year, Animal Protection Austria is committed to injured and weakened wild animals. In addition to swallows and hedgehogs, other cases of wild animals also attracted attention. The case of the otter Lilly moved all of Austria. In addition, many pigeons, small mammals, and even injured deer found shelter and initial care. The study and practical experiences make it clear: Wild animals are important to Austrians. Their popularity and their protection are important to them and form the basis for the work of Animal Protection Austria.

(Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.