Promotion and conservation of species-rich pasturelands in the Pannonian region of Eastern Austria with a focus on dung beetles (coprophagous Scarabaeidae)

The open and semi-open steppe landscapes of Central Europe are the result of millennia of grazing. This project aims to ecologically enhance selected grazing areas in the Pannonian region of Eastern Austria for coprophagous insects and their food chains. It is carried out in cooperation with the Neusiedler See National Park, the Leiser Berge and Hohe Wand Nature Parks, and two organic farms. “Enhancement” refers to improving habitat quality for dung insects, especially dung beetles (Scarabaeidae). 

Extending the grazing period supports various dung-dwelling species—over 4,000 insects were found in a three-day-old cowpat. The project’s findings will be used to raise awareness about the impacts of routine deworming of grazing animals. 

Deworming often leads to the death of many dung-dwelling insects, disrupts decomposition, and deprives insectivores of their food source. The goal is to shift from prophylactic to targeted deworming. 

This will be achieved through educational efforts by project staff or by involving official veterinarians. Additionally, informational materials with recommended measures and key species will be developed for land managers.