The Austrian Society for Herpetology (ÖGH) is a non-profit organisation based at the Natural History Museum in Vienna, which has been actively campaigning for the protection of native amphibians and reptiles and their habitats since 1984. As an officially recognised environmental organisation, the ÖGH can be granted party status in environmental impact assessments and is entitled to enforce compliance with environmental protection regulations. In addition to its focus on Austrian herpetofauna, it also pays particular attention to global herpetological biodiversity.
The ÖGH plans, supports and promotes scientific research and projects in the field of herpetology. In addition to an annual conference and amphibian and reptile days, monthly talks, meetings of individual working groups and field trips are organised to promote the exchange and dissemination of knowledge. The society also publishes two journals: HERPETOZOA and ÖGH-Aktuell.
By taking part in public events such as Biodiversity Day or the Species Conservation Days at Schönbrunn Zoo, we aim to inspire members of the public to take an interest in Austria’s amphibians and reptiles and to raise awareness of the importance of conservation measures. Our annual Herpetorace makes a significant contribution to our citizen science work; nature enthusiasts are invited to spot as many species of amphibians and reptiles as possible and upload their sightings to reporting platforms.