Field Report: Strengthening Apollo Habitats in Tyrol and Salzburg
Second Week of June 2025 – Field Visits and Coordination
In the second week of June 2025, the EU-LIFE Apollo2020 project initiated a new phase of fieldwork with coordinated site visits to four important Apollo butterfly habitats across East Tyrol and Salzburg: Hinterbichl, Virgen, and Leisach (East Tyrol) as well as Karteis (Salzburg, Pongau). These visits marked a crucial step toward evaluating habitat conditions, fostering local cooperation, and preparing for summer restoration actions aimed at supporting Parnassius apollo glocnericus and P. apollo juvavus.
Each site contributes to the growing network of stepping-stone habitats that are essential for population connectivity, successful reproduction, and the long-term resilience of Apollo butterflies in the alpine region. From the valley slopes of East Tyrol to the grazed meadows of Salzburg’s Karteis area, the diversity of habitats highlights the need for regionally adapted conservation strategies within a shared cross-border framework.
Each of these habitats is a puzzle piece in a much larger ecological mosaic. Through field-based coordination and strong local partnerships, we’re shaping a future where Parnassius apollo glocnericus can thrive once more.
The field assessments were carried out by Otto Feldner, one of Europe’s leading Parnassius apollo experts with over 50 years of experience in habitat restoration and butterfly breeding. He was supported by Max A. E. Rossberg, the Austrian regional project manager, habitat expert, and landscape specialist. Together, they deployed drone-based high-resolution imagery to document terrain structure, vegetation cover, and potential microhabitats critical for Apollo survival.
This aerial data is now being analysed to inform the next phase of habitat management—ensuring that upcoming interventions are strategically located, ecologically sound, and sustainable over time.
Further insights into the concrete restoration measures taken at each site will follow in a series of detailed field reports in the coming weeks.
Stay connected as Apollo2020 continues to build a robust ecological network across Tyrol and Salzburg for one of Europe’s most iconic alpine butterflies.
