The Chamois in Climate Change – Pathways into the Future

The Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) is one of the most iconic species of the European alpine zone. As a highly specialized mountain ungulate, it is perfectly adapted to cold and rugged habitats through physiological and behavioral mechanisms. However, the impacts of climate change – including rising temperatures, altered vegetation, and increased predator pressure – are rapidly transforming its habitat. In response, chamois are shifting their ranges, showing increased use of forested areas, and suffering from lower survival and reproduction rates in traditional alpine zones. While populations in forested habitats show better condition and higher reproductive success, this creates new challenges such as forest damage and conflicts with forestry and reforestation efforts. The return of the wolf adds further stress by reshaping the behavioral ecology of the chamois. To address these complex dynamics, several research projects supported by the CIC are underway, e.g. in Austria, Italy, and Croatia. These projects assess habitat quality, spatial use, and physical condition using GPS tracking, camera traps, and baited scales. Their goal is to inform sustainable wildlife management strategies that ensure the future of the chamois as both a wildlife symbol and a game species. The CIC's commitment to "Conservation through Sustainable Use" reinforces the importance of evidence-based, cooperative approaches to wildlife conservation in the face of climate change.