Abruzzo chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica ornata) is a goat-antelope native to the central Apennine mountains in central and southern Italy. It is one of three subspecies of Pyrenean chamois, the other two being R. p. pyrenaica and R. p. parva.
Possessing a slim build, the Abruzzo chamois measures 100 to 130 centimeters long and 70 to 80 centimeters tall at the shoulders.[2] Males typically weigh around 30 kilograms, while females weigh about 27 kilograms .[3] Both males and females have long, slender horns that hook at the end. The Abruzzo chamois can be distinguished from Iberian subspecies by its coat, sporting comparatively large patches of light fur on its throat, shoulders, and rump.[4] Their specialized hooves have concave soles, sharp, hard edges, and point slightly downward in the front. These adaptations allow them to climb rocks using small projections, prevent themselves from skidding on steep surfaces, move effectively on ice, and quickly brake while running downhill.[5]
Behavior
Abruzzo chamois primarily group together in herds of females and male young, while adult males remain solitary or in small groups for most of the year.[3] Within groups of females, dominance and social rank are determined based on age, horn length, and most prominently bodyweight.[6]
Habitat
Preferring steep, mountainous environments, Abruzzo chamois generally live at elevations of 1,200 to 2000 meters above sea level.[2]
While both extant Iberian subspecies of Pyrenean chamois are listed as least concern, the Abruzzo chamois is listed as vulnerable on account of its lower population and restricted range. It is estimated that there are over 3000 individuals split between 5 populations.[1] The subspecies was previously assessed as endangered in 1996, but successful reintroduction programs have resulted in a substantial population increase. Persistent obstacles to their conservation include fragmented habitats, low genetic diversity, competition with domestic caprids, and the effects of climate change upon grasslands inhabited by Abruzzo chamois.[1]
Between 1991 and 2006, 22 female and 18 male Abruzzo chamois were released in Maiella National Park, which have developed into a self-sustaining population of over 1400 individuals as of 2021.[8]
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