Austria

Archeologists have documented evidence of prehistoric man hunting Austria's Alps. By the Middle Ages, hunting evolved as a privilege of the nobility. For centuries the ruling Habsburg monarchy elevated hunting to a prestigious activity. Emperors like Maximilian I (15th–16th century) were avid hunters, and elaborate court hunts symbolized their power. But the Habsburgs also established the country's earliest conservation policies by establishing game reserves, hunting lodges, and code of ethics. After the fall of the monarchy in 1918, hunting became more democratized but retained its cultural significance and rituals.

Austria remains loyal to its early ethical code, emphasizing respect for animals, nature, and its hunting tradition. The letzter Bissen (last bite) ritual involves placing a sprig of greenery in the mouth of a fallen animal as a sign of respect. Hubertusfeier is an annual celebration during November honoring St. Hubert with masses, horn performances, and communal meals. These customs and many more run deep in the country's hunting heritage. They symbolize the union of practical wildlife management with high ceremony. Visiting hunters will immerse in Austria's time-honored traditions as they navigate stunning scenery under the decorum of their Jäger (professional hunter).

Alpine Ibex is Austria's most coveted hunting trophy and only a small number of licenses are issued annually to ensure sustainability. Hunting this symbol of the Alps is regarded as a test of skill, endurance, and respect for nature, deeply tied to Alpine identity. It combines physical challenge, cultural heritage, and strict conservation principles, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Austrian Alps. Hunting Alpine Ibex is considered a prestigious pursuit due to the animal's relative rarity, agility, and the demanding Alpine environment.

Nearly extinct by the 19th century due to overhunting and habitat loss, reintroduction began in the early 20th century. Ibex from Italy and Switzerland were released into Austria's Alps, particularly in Tyrol, Carinthia, and Styria. Successful conservation efforts restored populations, allowing limited hunting to resume by the mid-20th century.

Today, Austria's ibex population is healthy and stable, estimated at several thousand across the Alps. With the closure of Switzerland and with Slovenia's small population of Alpine Ibex offering very limited hunting, Austria has evolved to be the major destination for hunting Alpine ibex.

The Alpine Chamois is Austria's other alluring hunting challenge. It is as beautiful as it is alert and agile. Despite its diminutive size, it is a trophy of significance for Capra enthusiasts and hunters who simply prefer mountains as the backdrop for their hunts.

Caprinae Safaris has been hunting prime Austrian territory for Alpine Ibex and Alpine Chamois including the beautiful Styria region. Both species are widely distributed across the hunting areas enabling them to be hunted in their native habitat on a free-range basis. The majority of the hunting is conducted between 2600-3000 feet (700-900 meters) in elevation.

Some aspects of the Alpine Ibex conservation involve private enterprises. Austria also offers the option of hunting them on fenced estates. These reserves typically produce Ibex with bigger horns than those inhabiting the free-range areas. Caprinae Safaris offers both free-range and estate hunting arrangements to meet the needs of our hunters.

The pleasant weather of the early season (August-October) adds and extra level of enjoyment to the hunt. Although hunters could experience snow later in the season (late November-December), this is the rutting period and these hunts are more likely the produce exceptional trophies.

With such limited quota and productive huntable territory largely confined to Austria, Alpine Ibex are considered royal game. Among the many Ibex sub-species, this Austrian hunt is one of Europe's most rewarding and exclusive adventures. Explore the finer points of this ritualized hunt steeped in tradition by contacting us for an in-depth explanation.