Nockberge

The Nockberge is a protected area in the Austrian Alps of Carinthia. It covers 7,984.5 hectares entirely on land, with its centre at 46.8833° N 13.75° E. Declared a Natura 2000 site in May 1995, it safeguards two plant species and twenty-two animal species. Protection was strengthened again in December 2018. The site lies in the alpine ecoregion and contains nineteen natural habitats. These range from alpine meadows and dwarf shrub heaths to limestone cliffs and peat bogs. Among the protected species are the green shield-moss and Mannia triandra, plus nineteen birds including the eagle owl and golden eagle. Mammals such as the Eurasian lynx and brown bear also live here, along with the scarce heath fritillary butterfly. Visitors walk marked paths through mountain forests and open grasslands. Wildflower meadows appear in summer, while rocky slopes support rare pioneer plants. Birdwatchers scan the skies for raptors and grouse. The quiet valleys and high ridges offer clear views of the surrounding peaks.