Linz cemeteries provide habitats for diverse wildlife

Two of Linz’s three largest cemeteries are supporting a wide range of wildlife as well as almost 40,000 graves across 70 hectares, ORF reports.

Clemens Frauscher, manager of St Barbara Cemetery, said few people visit during the day, giving animals a peaceful place to live. Even small spaces are used to provide habitats, including for hedgehogs. Kestrels and hedgehogs help maintain a natural balance by reducing insects and wild pigeons, the report said. Hares are also common at the cemeteries.

At St Barbara, abandoned graves are deliberately planted with wild herbs to support native insects. Landscape gardener Stefan Oberklammer said signs explain that the plots are wild-bee and insect habitats that are important for the climate. The project initially drew complaints but is now recognised as a contribution to biodiversity.

At St Martin City Cemetery, managed by LINZ AG, roe deer, pheasants and fish have found a habitat. The cemetery administration has worked with Traun primary school on a project to build 12 hedgehog shelters, which are distributed across the grounds.