The Rhaetic Triangle

Natural value

Much of the region is characterised by a unique natural landscape and a diversity of cultures. Important protected areas, including the Stelvio and Swiss national parks, are found in the Rhaetic Triangle. The area is also home to the western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), a strictly protected species in Switzerland, and is prime habitat for bears, wolves, and lynx, although these species do not yet call the area home.

• Lower Engadine: The combination of a special climate and morphology have made the Lower Engadine in the Swiss canton Graubuenden a hotspot for biodiversity. The distinct mosaic of natural and extensively farmed areas is an additional source of the region’s rich diversity of life. Steep, south-facing slopes with high sun and wind exposure create a hot and dry microclimate, perfect for heat-loving species such as reptiles, butterflies, grasshoppers, and wild bees. The area also plays an important role for the return of the brown bear to the Alps.  
• Stelvio / Stilfserjoch National Park: The Stelvio/Stilfserjoch National Park includes a combination of both untouched Alpine territory and cultivated areas. The coexistence of different ecosystems – from wetlands to detrital areas, calcareous to siliceous soils – provides many different habitats to a variety of species. 
• Swiss National Park: The Swiss National Park is Switzerland’s only national park. It is an important site for the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) – once extinct in the Alps – which has been re-introduced to the area.

Threats to nature

One of the major threats to biodiversity in the region are changes to the cultural landscape. The natural treasures associated with traditionally managed areas - e.g. dry meadows and pastures - are disappearing as less productive and unfavourable areas are either abandoned or the management intensified. Many of the species-rich meadows and pastures of the Alps have already disappeared. Protecting the cultural landscape in the Rhaetic Triangle will thus be an important contribution to saving biodiversity in the Alps. 

What we do 

Together with its partners, WWF is working to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the Rhaetic Triangle area. As a first step, WWF is conducting a biodiversity assessment of the area, focussing on the identification of important habitats for biodiversity.

WWF is also involved in a number of bottom-up approaches to biodiversity conservation in the area in close collaboration with local actors and authorities. Specific themes include the promotion of large carnivore acceptance and the protection and restoration of dry meadow habitats. The projects place a special emphasis on incorporating the human dimension in their strategies.
 

Projects in the area