Chamois and Ibex Welfare in the Alps

Alpine chamois and ibex are iconic mountain ungulates whose welfare is affected by tourism pressure, hunting, disease, and climate change altering snow conditions and vegetation availability in high-altitude habitats.

Key Facts

Alpine ibex were hunted to near-extinction by the 19th century but recovered through strict protection and reintroduction
Chamois populations across the Alps number approximately 500,000 individuals
Sarcoptic mange has caused severe welfare impacts and population crashes in several Alpine chamois populations
Tourism and ski infrastructure cause significant disturbance to winter chamois herds when food reserves are critical
Climate change is reducing snow cover duration and altering vegetation phenology in ways that affect chamois nutrition timing

Welfare Considerations

Chamois and ibex face overlapping welfare threats in alpine environments. Mange infestations cause extreme pruritus, hair loss, hypothermia, and slow death over months, representing one of the most serious welfare issues for wild ungulates in Europe. Winter disturbance by skiers and snowshoers forces energy expenditure at the most vulnerable time of year. Hunting of ibex and chamois, while managed, raises welfare concerns about wounding rates and whether animals shot at long range experience minimised suffering.

What You Can Do

Respect wildlife disturbance zones in alpine ski resorts and avoid off-piste routes near known wintering grounds
Support Alpine conservation organisations monitoring chamois mange and ibex populations
Advocate for hunting regulations that require ethical shot placement and mandatory follow-up of wounded animals
Donate to wildlife disease research programmes studying mange treatment options for wild ungulates