Effects of an exceptionally snowy winter on chamois survival

摘要: Although weather-induced mass mortalities of wild ungulates have been reported, no study has quantified how these episodes may affect the survival prime-aged adults. Long-term studies marked instead consistently found very weak or effects weather on this age class, particularly for females. We report exceptionally snowy winter 2008–2009 three populations chamois in western Alps: two Italy, one France. In Alpi Marittime Natural Park mortality females (aged 2–9 years) was 43%, about five times higher than reported by previous chamois. Just across continental divide adjacent Mercantour National (PNM) France, however, female only 6%. Senescent suffered high both (100% and 56%). Gran Paradiso Italy Park, adult male rate respectively 81% 44%, whereas PNM, it 10%. A recent reduction population density French population, lower absolute snowfall explain difference survival. Survival males can be affected exceptional events, possibly combination with density. Adult sexes appeared to show elevated response harsh conditions. Our results underline importance considering sex classes evaluating impacts ungulates.