Results of some control campaigns suggest that the characteristic features of response to reduction of numbers (improved physical conditions, higher reproductive rates) are suppressed when the control technique disrupts the ability of survivors to exploit preferred components of the habitat.
Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) are usually considered an alpine species in New Zealand, but also occur in forests in areas such as Westland. A postal survey of commercial helicopter-based hunters indicated that chamois are present within Westland forests from timberline to sea level and are most abundant within an area of about 1600 km(2) extending from the Wanganui River in the north to the Karangarua River to the south. The diet of 40 chamois shot in spring and summer was determined by analysis of rumen contents.
