The Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) is regarded as perhaps the most elegant of all the Antelope in the World. Natives of Europe and the Middle East, Chamois have extremely sharp senses that are perfectly matched to their incredible agility. They are mainly found living above the bush line throughout much of the Southern Alps, although at times they will venture to the comparative lowlands. Both the Chamois Buck and Doe produce similar horn growth and are regarded as top trophies. They offer an exciting and challenging hunt and only hunted in the mountains of the South Island.

While Chamois are hunted year-round, their rutting season runs from April through to June. It is during the ‘Rut’ that Chamois, particularly the Buck, are at their entertaining best. Whether it’s the Buck’s antics towards the Does, or its aggression towards other Bucks, or indeed the hunter, they are fascinating to watch. Often when they spot movement, they will charge towards it to run off an intruder. Many a hunter has had a Chamois Buck run right up to them, often to the animal’s extreme disadvantage, though a great advantage for our bow hunters.

During the winter months, the Alpine Chamois normally golden skin changes to the much darker tone of its winter coat, with only the tan flashes on the head remaining of its summer colours. The Southern Alps Chamois were introduced to the South Island in 1907 and these remain the only free-ranging herd outside of their Northern Hemisphere home territories.