The water shrew and other small mammals along the Johnsbach (National Park Gesäuse Steiermark)

The water shrew (Neomys fodiens) is of particular interest for the Gesäuse National Park due to its protection status and the small number of current evidence in the region. As a result of the visual observation of an individual of the genus Neomys along the Johnsbach in 2012, the investigation of a possible occurrence took place. Between July and August 2013, baited tunnels were deployed for 2 weeks on 10 sections on the banks of the Johnsbach to survey potential sites. Subsequently, live catches with Longworth and Trip-Trap traps amounting to 240 fishing units were carried out in places with positive results. Among the 35 small mammals caught, the majority of them rubella mice Myodes glareolus were also found 2 individuals of Neomys fodiens. Evidence is obtained in the underflow, which is forested on both sides and characterized by different flow velocities. Upstream, an occurrence could only be detected where small gutters and washed-up woods create structural diversity.