With spring-like temperatures and blooming meadows, the beloved island sheep are returning to Vienna's Danube Island. The animal "mowing brigade" is once again replacing mechanical meadow mowing in the island's natural north. At the same time, the "Copa Cruise" begins its new season just in time for Easter weekend, allowing visitors to comfortably reach the sheep on the environmentally friendly island boat. City Councilor Ulli Sima emphasizes the importance of the Danube Island as a diverse local recreation area for the citizens of Vienna and thanks the mobile island teams for their efforts.
The island sheep, which have a loyal following, not only contribute to landscape conservation but also promote the connectivity of biotopes through their gentle grazing. They leave certain plants, such as thistles and knapweed, standing, which serve as a food source for rare stone bees. A shepherdess oversees the animals' well-being daily.
The "Copa Cruise," an electric catamaran with solar panels on the roof, will resume operations on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays starting April 18, connecting the lively Copa Beach with the more natural northern part of the Danube Island. It serves four stops: Copa Beach, Floridsdorfer Brücke, Nordbrücke, and Jedleseer Brücke.
The mobile island service, which has been operating on the Danube Island for 15 years and has now covered 100.000 kilometers, is celebrating another anniversary. The teams ensure cleanliness, assist at barbecue areas, and provide information about recreational activities. Gerald Löw, head of the Vienna Waterways Department, expressed his delight at the anniversary and the start of the season on the popular recreational island.
and 