Chamois

The chamois, a characteristic wild animal of the Alpine regions, is a symbol of adaptability and the art of survival in extreme habitats. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and ecology of the chamois and emphasizes the importance of protecting their habitats and sustainable management.

100 to 130 cm in body length and 20 to 40 kg – this is what an adult chamois reaches. Its diet consists of grasses, herbs, leaves, shoots, and lichens; in winter, also buds and bark. Its life expectancy is up to 15 years.

Chamois for Gardens, Nature Trails & Education

Profile: Chamois

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Mammalia (mammals)
    • Order: Artiodactyla (even-toed ungulates)
    • Family: Bovidae (bovids)
    • Genus: Rupicapra
    • Species: R. rupicapra (chamois)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 100-130 cm
    • Shoulder height: 70-80 cm
    • Weight: 20-40 kg, depending on gender and subspecies
    • Special features: Compact body, short legs, characteristic facial markings, curved horns in both sexes.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, especially alpine and mountainous areas
    • Habitat: Rocky slopes, alpine meadows and pastures at altitudes of 500-3,000 m; adaptable to extremely steep terrain.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Herbivore
    • Typical food: grasses, herbs, leaves, shoots, lichens; in winter also buds and bark.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Mating season: Autumn
    • Gestation period: Approx. 5-6 months
    • Litter size: 1 young per clutch
    • Brood care: Females raise the young alone
    • Social structure: Usually in small groups, called packs, which have a social hierarchy.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 15 years in the wild
    • Threat status: Not threatened, but local populations may be affected by hunting, habitat loss and disturbance.
    • Conservation measures: preservation and protection of alpine habitats, regulation of hunting, protection from disturbances caused by tourism and infrastructure projects.

  • This is how big the chamois really is

    • Chamois Buck: 91 × 115 cm

    Dimensions of the life-size standees (width × height), printed to a 1:1 scale.

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