From the age of 6 to 8 months, the fen cattle, a cross between Angus and Galloway cattle, graze directly in the Natura 2000 and European protection area. The peaceful, frugal animals are hardy and remain in the wild here for 2 to 2.5 years. Since the Zickental fen cattle live exclusively on natural, unfertilized grasses and herbs, their meat is tender, has a low-grain texture, and tastes wonderful. As they are not fattened on grain, the slower growth rate results in an excellent quality of meat. There is a great demand for this valuable meat, both from local restaurants and those further afield; the meat is used for culinary delicacies such as roast ox or ox goulash. The unique meat can be purchased in local stores as air-dried ham, sausage, and Burgenland Leberkäse. Fresh products are particularly popular here. You will also find distillery specialties such as Zickentaler Moorgeist and Moorbitter.
It’s not only the fen cattle that make the trip a special experience, you can discover the entire nature reserve.