Chamois
Rupicapra rupicapra
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Artiodactyla · Bovidae
About
The chamois or Alpine chamois is a species of goat-antelope native to mountainous parts of Europe and Western Asia, from the Pyrenees, the Alps, the Apennines, the Dinarides, the Tatra to the Carpathian Mountains, the Balkan Mountains, the Rila–Rhodope massif, Pindus, the northeastern mountains of Turkey, and the Caucasus. It has also been introduced to the South Island of New Zealand. Some subspecies of chamois are strictly protected in the EU under the European Habitats Directive.
Fun Fact
Chamois can leap 6 metres horizontally and 2 metres vertically from a standing position, and their hooves have a hard outer rim with a soft inner pad — like built-in crampons for alpine terrain.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Alpine meadows and rocky terrain
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
15-17 years
Threats
- Mining Operations
- Infrastructure Development