The Wasserspitzmouse and other small mammals along the Johnsbach (National Park Gesäuse Styria)

Due to its protection status and the small number of current evidence in the region, the water spike mouse (Neomys fodiens) is of particular interest for the Gesäuse National Park. As a result of the visual observation of an individual of the genus Neomys along the Johnsbach in 2012, the investigation of possible occurrences was carried out. Between July and August 2013, baited solution tunnels were deployed on 10 sections on the shore of the Johnsbach for 2 weeks. Subsequently, live catches with longworth and trip-trap cases were carried out in places with positive results of 240 fishing units. Among the 35 small mammals caught, the majority of them rubella coats Myodes glareolus also found 2 individuals of Neomys fodiens. Evidence is obtained in the underflow, characterised by different flow velocities, on both sides. Upstream, an occurrence could only be detected where small rifles and washed-up woodland create structural diversity.