Chamois hunting is a classic alpine pursuit best undertaken from September through January, with the rut in November–December offering the greatest chance to intercept mature males. During summer, these animals graze high above the timberline on alpine meadows, but as snow deepens, they descend into subalpine forests and rocky gullies. Hunts typically involve steep pre‑dawn climbs to ridges, glassing expansive slopes and then carefully stalking down to within shooting range; keen eyesight and an acute sense of smell often necessitate longer shots. In heavily forested regions, guides may also employ high seats or driven hunts when chamois descend to browse in clearings.

Chamois are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, and populations are generally stable across Europe and New Zealand. However, management differs by region: some subspecies such as the Pyrenean and Cantabrian chamois have recovered from sarcoptic mange outbreaks, while others like the Balkan and Carpathian chamois are carefully managed through quotas and limited seasons. Hunting licences and community‑led conservation projects fund monitoring programmes and habitat protection, ensuring sustainable offtake and preservation of alpine ecosystems. Ten subspecies are recognised, including the Pyrenean, Cantabrian, Alpine, Balkan, Carpathian, Anatolian, Caucasian, South Pacific (New Zealand), Lower Tatra and Chartreuse chamois.