Analysis of reptile populations on the Sulzkaralm (Gesäuse National Park)

Diploma thesis at the Karl-Franzens-University Graz Graz In the study period from June to September 2005, an analysis of the reptile populations was carried out on the Sulzkaralm, the largest alpine pasture in the Gesäuse National Park. Since the alpine pasture extends from 1,220 to 1,680 m above sea level, it can be attributed to the sub-alpine and alpine altitude level. This results in height-related adaptations of the species in terms of their development as well as their seasonal and diurnal activity phases. Of the expected species, 4 - vipera berus (crucifer), natrix natrix (ringed snake), zootoca vivipara vivipara (mountain lizard) and Anguis fragilis (blind crescent) - could be detected. For the investigations, the alpine pasture area with a total area of around 176.5 ha had to be divided into smaller sectors. The Goldeck sector (1,220-1,283 m), a small area northeast of the Sulzkaralm, was included in the study as a reference area due to several factors such as accessibility, altitude and terrain structure. The cross-octopus was most frequently detected by all four species, which is why it is also the focus of the present work. The number and age structure of the found animals suggest a stable population, the survival of which seems to be assured for the near future. Its distribution extends over large parts of the alpine pasture area and reaches a high concentration in the pastures around the Halterhütte, which can therefore be regarded as a core area. Of the mountain lizard, which very often occurs syntopically with the crusader, only eight finds could be recorded, which hardly allows statements about their stock situation. However, due to the optimal habitat supply, it can be assumed that the population is significantly larger than it could be proven in the context of this study. This also applies to ringworms and blind creepers, the occurrence of which could only be confirmed by one specimen at a time. For all four species of reptiles, the preservation of the current situation in the study area and sensitization of national park visitors to this topic can be mentioned as the most urgent protective measures.