European pond turtles

Since July 2025 at the UnterWasserReich

At the UnterWasserReich in Schrems, otters, various freshwater fish and invertebrates are now joined for the first time by reptiles. More specifically, these are European pond turtles, which can now be observed.
 

Threatened with extinction

The European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) is the only native turtle species in Austria and, according to Austria’s Red List, is threatened with extinction. Currently, there is only one known native population that reproduces naturally, located in the Danube floodplains. The main causes of its drastic decline are, as is so often the case, man-made: habitat loss through destruction and fragmentation, particularly of floodplains, as well as the introduction of non-native species, such as ornate turtles, which displace the native species. Furthermore, the European pond turtle was once regarded as a fish and was therefore also popular as a Lenten dish.

Partnership for species conservation and educational work with the Lower Austria Museum

UnterWasserReich has recently been named Austria’s TOP Zoo and is thus committed to exceeding legal standards. Alongside animal welfare and natural husbandry conditions, one of the core tasks of modern zoos is to promote public awareness of the conservation of biological diversity through education.
In particular, rare animal species and their often threatened habitats should be brought into the spotlight to raise awareness and drive their protection.

To this end, a partnership has also been established with the Museum Niederösterreich – House of Nature. The museum has kindly provided turtles from its own collection to the UnterWasserReich.

Visits now possible

Anyone wishing to see the turtles for themselves can visit them daily from 10:00 – 17:00 in the new, natural-looking turtle enclosure at the UnterWasserReich. With a little patience and a keen eye, they can be observed. They prefer to spend their days in the water or enjoy a long sunbath on tree trunks.

Zoological Director & Managing Director Thomas Kainz and Managing Director Christiane Mader:
“We are delighted to now be able to show our visitors a new highlight whilst also raising knowledge and awareness of these very rare animals. Our special thanks go to the Museum NÖ – Haus für Natur for their excellent cooperation.”

A little tip

Anyone wishing to get even closer to the turtles can make a very special gesture by sponsoring one or naming it – also as a gift for a loved one. For more information, please visit info@unterwasserreich.at