A devastating storm that swept through central Europe has caused widespread damage, not only to human infrastructure but also to wildlife. Thousands of birds have perished due to the heavy rains and subsequent flooding. Deprived of their usual food sources, which have been washed away by the downpours, these birds are succumbing to starvation.
Residents of Lower Austria, who were just beginning to recover from the severe flooding, are now facing a new crisis.Roads and fields are littered with the bodies of dead birds. The cause of death is attributed not only to starvation but also to hypothermia caused by a sudden drop in temperature. In some areas, snow even fell, catching migrating birds off guard.
A similar situation occurred in Austria exactly half a century ago. According to the coordinator of the BirdLife movement,in 1974, Austrians collected weakened birds and handed them over to ornithologists who transported the birds in cages to southern countries by plane and train.
Today, rescue centers for injured and weakened birds are operating throughout the country. Specialists are treating and rehabilitating the affected birds. A campaign is also underway to guide the public on what to do if they find injured birds.
Residents are urged not to disturb groups of birds that have taken shelter under roofs. If birds are found on the ground,unable to fly, they should be carefully collected in animal carriers or placed in boxes with ventilation holes. The birds should then be taken to the nearest rescue center, such as the "Swallow's House" in Tirschuetz, where they will be helped to recover their strength and then sent south.
The Austrian Research Institute for Wildlife Ecology fears that the consequences of the storm will have a serious impact not only on birds but also on other wildlife. In flooded areas, almost all brown hares are expected to perish. Many foxes,wild boars, and badgers will also not survive the severe flooding. Even beavers, which are well adapted to aquatic environments, may struggle to survive in the turbulent waters of overflowing rivers.
A wildlife hotline has been set up for anyone wishing to help animals in distress.
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