European wildcat facility

Valley of the Wildcat.

For a long time, the European wildcat was considered to be extinct or lost in Austria. But in 2007, the species protection sensation enjoyed some success: for the first time, it was possible to genetically identify a wildcat based on hair samples. Not just anywhere, but in the unspoilt forests of the Thayatal National Park!
Today, the national park is your first port of call for learning more about the wildcat. That being said though, spotting them in the Thayatal forests is almost impossible due to their reclusive lifestyle.

Even still, visitors can catch glimpses of the life of the wildcat: Frieda & Carlo live as ambassadors from the wild in the extensive grounds near the National Park House. A specially designed hiking trail makes it possible to follow the footsteps of the skilful huntresses. And the wildcat camp not only makes the participating students grow closer together as a class community, but also offers many unforgettable nature experiences.

Frieda & Carlo - ambassadors from the wild


Frieda & Carlo are the two stars of the National Park Thayatal and have an important job. They act as ambassadors from the wild to bring people closer to the animals that would otherwise be "invisible". The two are at home in Austria's largest wildcat enclosure. From the foyer of the National Park House you can watch the animals climbing, lounging around and foraging in their 450 m² enclosure.

Feeding the wild cats

Experience the unique nature of this fascinating wild animal during a feeding show for our "ambassadors from the wild" Frieda & Carlo. You can see the power, elegance but sometimes also the fierceness of the two wild cats for yourself.

Wildcat summer in the Nationalpark

Rent a Ranger -
The return of the wildcat and other wild animals

Head out on an excursion with your own ranger into the habitat of special and elusive wild animals.

Learn more

European Wildcat hiking trail

The wildcat hiking trail starts at the National Park House and leads down to the hermit's hut. As well as information on the life of wildcats and an exercise station at the National Park House, hikers should pay particular attention to encounters with wildcats!

Learn more
Learn more about the situation of the wildcat in Austria