Origin: The Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) is a characteristic symbol of the mountainous regions of Europe. It originally inhabited mainly the Alpine region, but today it is also found in other mountain ranges, such as the Carpathians, the Tatras, and the Balkan Mountains. Its ancestors evolved in Europe as early as the Pleistocene and have perfectly adapted to life at high altitudes.

Specifics:

Size and appearance: The chamois has a slender body, which allows it to move on steep slopes and rocky terrain. Its fur is short and reddish-brown in summer, while in winter it becomes thicker and darker to protect it from the cold.
Antlers: Both sexes have antlers, which are slender, slightly curved backward, and form typical “hooks.” The antlers grow throughout life and are usually more massive in males.
Adaptability: Chamois are masters of balance and movement in difficult terrain. Thanks to their strong legs and sharp claws, they can safely climb steep slopes and cliffs.

Interesting facts:

Movement: Chamois can jump up to 2 meters high and 6 meters long! Their movement on rocks resembles that of an acrobat.
Social behavior: Chamois live in groups consisting of females, young, and juvenile individuals. Males are mostly solitary and join groups during the rut.
Vision: They have exceptionally good eyesight – they can spot the movement of a predator at a distance of up to 1 kilometer.

Occurrence in Central Europe:

Distribution: The Alpine chamois naturally occurs in Central Europe in the Alps and the Tatra Mountains. The subspecies of the Tatra mountain chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra tatrica) lives in the Slovak Tatra Mountains, which is endemic and considered a national natural treasure.
Preferred habitats: Chamois prefer mountainous areas above the tree line, where they find shelter and food. During the summer, they stay at higher altitudes, but descend lower in the winter.
Protection: In the Tatra Mountains, chamois are strictly protected, as their population is relatively small. In the Alps, the population is more stable, and chamois are often hunted as trophy game.