Vienna, Austria - May 2, 2024

In addition to rhinos, wolves, and tigers, Vienna Zoo is also home to a diverse array of beetles, including wasp beetles, weevils, and more. However, these are not relatives of goats, but rather insects. Since late 2022, the zoo has been researching which of the estimated 8,000 native beetle species inhabit its grounds. The zoo has been monitoring its native insect fauna since 2021, previously surveying wild bees and dragonflies. This year, butterflies are the focus.

A proud documentation of 450 beetle species was recorded during the beetle survey, including rare and strictly protected beetles. Notably, sightings of the Alpine Longhorn Beetle, the Hermit Beetle, and the Golden Green Oak Splendour Beetle were made. The Alpine Longhorn Beetle was observed, among other places, at the Tirolerhof. Throughout the EU, this striking blue beetle is considered endangered. "The fact that the Golden Green Oak Splendour Beetle has found a habitat in the zoo is sensational! It has been known as a relic of the primeval forest at only four locations in Austria for decades. Such evidence shows that our efforts to provide attractive habitats for native species are bearing fruit," said zoo director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck.

The elaborate survey was financially supported by the Austrian Lotteries. Beetles inhabit various habitats—from forests to flowering shrubs to waters. Therefore, various trapping methods were employed, including funnel traps in the treetops, nocturnal light sources, and the examination of tree trunks. A remarkable diversity of wood-inhabiting beetles, such as the stag beetle, lives in the forest on the way to the Tirolerhof. "This is only possible because many dead trees, at least as trunks, are deliberately left standing in the zoo. These serve as substrates for beetle larvae. This will be necessary in the future to preserve some of the rare species here," said beetle expert Alexander Dostal, who conducted the survey.

The recommendations formulated from the survey will be incorporated into the gardening work at the zoo, further promoting the diversity of beetles at Vienna Zoo. Those wishing to help beetles in their own gardens can do so by providing deadwood stacks, "wild corners" where native grasses and herbs grow, and by refraining from using pesticides.