Illegal animal sanctuary

Authorities classify wildlife station as “illegal”

The couple Peter and Carina Werbik run the association "Ein Herz für Wildtiere" ("A heart for wild animals") and look after their protégés with great care.(Bild: Doris Seebacher)

For three years, the Werbik couple have been using a rented house in Steina-brückl to care for injured wild animals. Last year, however, they received a notice prohibiting them from using the building as a wildlife station in a residential area.

ÖVP mayor Gustav Glöckler commented: "We were informed back in spring 2023 that it stank in the residential complex." This was investigated by the state of Lower Austria and it was determined that a wildlife sanctuary was not permitted on residential land. "After all, it's about protecting the population living there and the fact that disease transmission cannot be ruled out," said Glöckler.

FPÖ local councillor Werbik senses a suspicion: "Glöckler can't stand the fact that our association is getting attention and believes that we are using it for political purposes". However, this is not the case.

Glöckler says that he has repeatedly made offers to Werbik for a suitable home for the animals, but these have always been rejected. Financial help has also been promised.

 The Werbiks continue to fight for the continued existence of their lovingly run wild animal sanctuary - after all, they have already invested 30,000 euros from their private coffers.