The chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) is an ungulate goat-antelope in the same family as antelopes, goats, sheep, and other similar animals. They typically weigh between 55-110 pounds, standing around 27-32 inches tall and 43-53 inches long. Both the females and males grow horns, though the female horns are often slimmer and longer than the male horns.
Chamois live in the Pyrenees, the mountains of south and central Europe, Turkey, and the Caucasus of Asia. They’ve also been introduced to the South Island of New Zealand. As their range suggests, these animals tend to live in the sub alpine meadows above the tree line, wintering in forests and on steep slopes where snow doesn’t accumulate. They are frequently found in quite steep terrain, like this chamois captured on camera by some skiers.
Chamois follow a similar mating season pattern to other ungulates, with the males becoming territorial in the fall and descending to lower altitudes to approach females. They mark their territory by rubbing their horns against bushes, rocks, and other features to spread their scent. In cases where multiple male chamois encounter each other, prolonged high-speed chases can occur, occasionally ending in a physical fight. Like any animal, chamois should always be given plenty of space.