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Wildlife reserves

Protection for wildlife

When you’re out skiing, you won’t even see them, the animals living next to the pistes. They’re shy and stay clear of humans. Because winter is a difficult time for wildlife, we ask that you respect their habitat.

Protection for wildlife

Many birds fly south for the winter. Wild animals that spend the winter months here have to be very frugal with their energy reserves. There is little to eat in the winter, and the food that’s available is low in nutrients. Moving about in the snow saps their strength and their energy reserves. As a result, wild animals have developed a variety of strategies for reducing their energy consumption to a minimum. They stay in dens or sheltered areas, warm themselves in the sun, lower their body temperatures, and move around as little as possible in order to save strength.

These survival strategies are successful only if wild animals are left undisturbed. Disturbances cause stress and trigger flight responses, which costs the animals a lot of energy. Wildlife reserves have been designated in and around the ski resort, and they are intended to protect wild animals from being disturbed and ensure that they get their needed tranquillity. The reserves are marked on the ski map in green and signposted in some cases at their locations.

Wildlife reserves: restricted zones

Entering wildlife reserves is prohibited between 1 December and 30 April. Infractions are punishable with a fine of up to CHF 150 and loss of ticket. By showing consideration, you’ll make a lasting contribution to the preservation of wildlife in the Urseren Valley. Andermatt Sedrun Sport AG and the wildlife thank you for your understanding.

Four rules for protecting wildlife

  • Respect wildlife reserves: wild animals seclude themselves there.

  • In the forest, stay on the marked routes and trails.

  • Avoid the forest edges and snow-free surfaces: they are favourite places for wildlife.

  • Keep dogs on a leash, particularly in the forest.

By paying attention to these rules, you’ll make an active contribution to the preservation of wildlife in the Alps.

Further information

These two flyers help you in planning your descent routes:

Andermatt Oberalp Gemsstock Pass wildlife reserves Here you can learn more about wild animals, wildlife reserves, and wildlife-friendly behaviour:

Federal Office for the Environment "Natur & Freizeit" Association

Bahnhof Göschenen 2019 Valentin Luthiger
As of the 2021/22 season, the Riental is a rest area for wildlife. Fines may be issued in the event of transit.

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