Cantabrian Chamois

Identification

With a total hight at the withers of 27 inches and a weight between 50lb – 55lb, the Cantabrian chamois is the smallest chamois in the world. It is characterized by its reddish coat colour in summer and pale grey during the cold winter, as well as a beautiful combination of facial colours with yellowish tones and two black strips running from the base of its horn to the tip of its nose. Both males and females have hook shaped horns. Males can be easily differentiated from females as their horns are slightly thicker and longer, plus their hook is sharper. As with other bovines, horns grow in correlation to age and the small rings around the horns allow us to determine how old a trophy is.

Hunting

A typical chamois hunt would start early morning and before dawn at the feet of a path which will lead us towards the top of the mountain. Step by step, the hunter and his guides will gain terrain beyond the tree line. Patiently, they will analyse every single bit of grass hit by the sunshine in search of the first groups of chamois. Without prior notice the first individuals will be spotted. It will then be time to make a stalking plan. A nice pair of binoculars, good physical condition and the determination to walk long distances until the right trophy is found will be essential factors to consider in order to enjoy one of the most beautiful hunts in Spain.