Ecological Role

The role of the Chamois in the ecosystems of Greece’s large mountains is particularly important. When the Chamois is present in large numbers, it can support the populations of higher predators, such as wolves and lynxes, by providing them with food. In this indirect way, it even contributes to reducing the damage to livestock caused by wild carnivores. Another natural predator of the Chamois is the golden eagle, which can capture young Chamois during the first months of their lives.

In some large mountain ranges abroad, where significant populations of Chamois exist, many animals die due to harsh winter conditions. The carcasses of these dead Chamois provide food for vultures, griffon vultures, and golden eagles. In our country, the above species of birds of prey are at risk of extinction either due to limited available food or from consuming poisoned baits that are sometimes illegally placed in nature by “unknowns.”