Chamois
Chamois were initially liberated into New Zealand in 1907 into the Mount Cook area. They quickly acclimatised to their new home and began expanding their range throughout a lot of the mountainous region of the South Island. Chamois are an extremely beautiful and dainty animal having striking facial markings and slender black fishhook style horns on both the bucks and the does. In summer, their pelage is a striking shade of orange and in winter, their coat thickens and goes almost jet-black.
Of all the species there is to hunt in the south pacific, chamois would have to be the most fascinating. Their unusual behaviour, especially during the rut is nothing short of astonishing. In my book, the chapter titled ‘The Unpredictable Chamois’ illustrates perfectly the odd ball antics this remarkable little antelope can get up to.
Whilst a full-grown chamois buck is by no means a big animal, one adorned with impressive 10” plus horns and a sporting a full winter cape, is a magnificent sight and for those lucky enough to bag such an animal, they are rewarded with one the finest trophies there is to be had.