Personnel from the Tatra National Park in Poland and its counterpart in neighbouring Slovakia spotted a total of 926 individuals of this rare and protected species, according to a statement by the Slovak Tatra National Park (TANAP) released on Monday.
A total of 267 chamois were observed on the Polish side of the Tatras, while 659 were spotted on the Slovak side, the statement read.
The chamois population is deemed satisfactory and has not experienced a radical decline, TANAP zoologist Erika Feriancová was quoted as saying.
The joint Polish-Slovak chamois count was held on November 7.
Observers noted that, despite morning rain in the lower areas, favorable conditions prevailed on that day, with the fog lifting later, providing perfect conditions for scrutiny.
Last year, 1,222 chamois, including 364 in Poland, were recorded during the campaign.
Tatra chamois are counted twice a year, in spring and autumn. The spring census focuses on the number of offspring, while the autumn census is designed to determine the overall population.
Chamois are a protected species, living in small herds led by an experienced female.
Males often live alone or form bachelor groups, joining herds during the autumn mating season. During the rut in late November and early December, they are known for engaging in fierce battles for the attention of unmated females.
Kids are typically born in spring, between April and May.
(mo/gs)
Source: PAP
Click on the audio player above for a report by Radio Poland's Michał Owczarek.
