Alpine Chamois

The best hunting area in France

Southern Alps, South of France

Description

About this trip

This trip takes place on free range estates in the South of France (around 15 000 hectares) where the altitude can vary from 600 to 1800 meters.

The season runs from September to end of December. The Chamois rut begins in November. It’s definitely an interesting period for our guests as they can often see big old males in search of females.
A fully grown chamois reaches a height of 70–80 cm (28–31 in) and measures 107–137 cm (42–54 in) (the tail is not generally visible except when mating). Males, which weigh 30– 60 kg (66–132 lb), are slightly larger than females, which weigh 25–45 kg (55–99 lb).Both males and females have short, horns which are hooked backwards near the tip, the horn of the male being thicker. In summer, the fur has a rich brown colour which turns to a light grey in winter. Distinct characteristics are white contrasting marks on the sides of the head with pronounced black stripes below the eyes, a white rump and a black stripe along the back.
Mouflon have red-brown, short-haired coats with dark back-stripes and light-colored saddle patches. The males are horned; some females are horned, while others are polled. The horns of mature rams are curved in almost one full revolution (up to 85 cm). Mouflon have shoulder heights of about 0.9 m and body weights of 50 kg (males) and 35 kg (females).

The outing will start just after sunshine. Chamois or mouflons are feeding in grass fields in the early mornings. This is a great opportunity to watch several groups of animals and then make a plan with your guide. The animals are usually spotted from a long distance. It makes the stalk very challenging and very rewarding. Our guide will get you to the best “shooting position” as close as possible from the selected chamois. Then it’s up to your shooting skill … no hurry … take your time … breath … and kill the chamois of your dream cleanly.
The outings can last from sunshine to sunrise. However the most exiting times are mornings and evenings when the Chamois or the Mouflon are feeding. During day time they tend to lie down in the bushes and enjoy the sun. Finding them is more difficult for a few hours so we have a quick break for lunch and get ready for the afternoon.
Hunters must be able to shooting from 100 to 300 metres laying down on backpack or bipod. However our guides will try to get them as close as possible to allow a clean and safe shot.

On this hunting area you can find the following species: alpine chamois, mouflon, roe deer and wild boar. All of these species can be taken during the trip.

Accommodation

We will normally book our guests in a lovely local hotel offering comfortable rooms, good food and local wines. Our hotels are used to welcome hunters all year round. They can arrange early breakfast, packed lunches and late diners if required … as well as massage service if required.

Formalities

We arrange all the paper work for you. Your hunting licence will be ready when you arrive.

Equipment & Climate

Night : -5°C to 5°C / Day : 5°C to 15°C

You will need a good pair of boots, confortable and breathable clothes, a pair of binoculars and a small back pack.

 

Additional information

Number of hunters

1 to 6 hunters on 1X1 or 2X1 basis

Number of days

2 to 5 hunting days