Chamois

Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica, Olympus

Rupicapra rupicapra (43012255230)

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Kamzík

Nízké Tatry, Dereše (5)

012 Wild Chamois Riederalp Photo by Giles Laurent

Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) is a species of goat-antelope native to mountains in Europe, including the Carpathian Mountains, the Tatra Mountains, the Balkans, parts of Turkey, and the Caucasus. The chamois is also found in the Pyrenees, the Alps, and the northern Apennines. It is adapted to living in rugged, mountainous terrain, and is known for its agility and ability to climb steep slopes.

Description

The chamois has a distinctive appearance with a short, thick body, and a small head with short, curved horns which are present in both males and females. The summer coat of the chamois is a rich brown, which turns to a light grey color in winter. They have a characteristic white face with pronounced black stripes below the eyes, and a white rump. Adult chamois usually weigh between 25 and 50 kilograms.

Habitat and Behavior

Chamois are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of mountainous habitats, ranging from alpine meadows to rocky, precipitous slopes. They exhibit remarkable agility in their rugged habitat and can often be seen jumping and running on steep cliffs. Chamois are diurnal, with most of their activity occurring in the early morning and late afternoon.

In terms of social structure, chamois can be found in small herds, although older males tend to be more solitary. The diet of the chamois consists mainly of grasses, herbs, and leaves, with a particular preference for high-altitude vegetation during the summer months.

Reproduction

The breeding season, or rut, occurs in late autumn. During this time, males engage in fierce battles for the right to mate with females. Females give birth to a single kid after a gestation period of about 170 days, usually in May or June. The young are weaned after a few months but may stay with their mother for up to a year.

Conservation Status

The chamois is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), thanks to stable population numbers across its range. However, local populations can be affected by habitat destruction, overhunting, and climate change. Conservation efforts are in place in several countries to ensure the species remains abundant.

Cultural Significance

The chamois has a strong presence in the folklore and culture of the mountain regions it inhabits. It is often seen as a symbol of the Alps and is respected for its agility and strength. Chamois leather, originally made from the skin of the chamois, is highly valued for its softness and absorbency, although today it is often made from the skins of domestic goats or sheep.