If you are out and about on skis, you often don't even see the animals that live next to the pistes. They are shy and retreat. As winter is a difficult time for wild animals, we humans have a duty to respect their habitats.

Wildlife-friendly behaviour

Many birds migrate south in winter. Wild animals that spend the cold season here have to be very economical with their energy reserves. There is little food available in winter and it is usually low in nutrients. Travelling in the snow saps strength and energy reserves. Wild animals have therefore developed a variety of strategies to reduce their energy consumption to what is necessary. They move into caves or sheltered shelters, warm themselves up in the sun, lower their body temperature and move as little as possible to save energy.

These survival strategies are only successful if the wild animals are not unnecessarily disturbed. Disturbances cause stress and trigger flight reactions, causing the animals to use up a lot of energy. Wildlife sanctuaries and quiet zones have been designated in and around the ski area to protect wild animals from disturbance and ensure the necessary peace and quiet. The protected areas are often marked in green on piste maps and some are signposted on site.

Wildlife protection area and wildlife quiet zones: Restricted zones

It is forbidden to ski in the wildlife protection zones between 1 December and 30 April. Infringements will be penalised with fines of up to CHF 150 and ticket withdrawal. By showing consideration, locals and visitors are making a lasting contribution to the conservation of wildlife in the Ursern Valley.

Further information

These two flyers will help you plan your downhill routes:

• Andermatt and Oberalp Pass wildlife sanctuaries

• Gemsstock and Oberalp Pass wildlife sanctuaries

Information on wildlife in Switzerland, wildlife rest areas and wildlife-friendly behaviour:

• Federal Office for the Environment

• Nature & Leisure Association

All the rules about keeping and walking dogs in the Andermatt Holiday Region:

• Information leaflet dog-keeping and management

An animal year

Our native animals change their location and habits depending on the season. If you wander through our area with your eyes open, especially in the early morning and evening hours, you will gain a variety of insights into our animal biodiversity.