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Chamois blindness has broken out among chamois in Alpstein; this year, therefore, hunting of animals is no longer allowed. They urgently need rest and protection, writes the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden in a message.
Chamois blindness is a highly contagious eye disease in animals. It occurs in sheep, goats, mountain goats, and chamois. The disease is caused by the pathogen Mycoplasma conjunctivae; this is particularly common in sheep. Wild animals become infected with it when they are near flocks of sheep. Flies are believed to play a role as a vector of the disease.
Suede blindness was discovered Monday; it is a serious form of the disease.
Trouble finding food
Eye disease can take different courses. In some cases, conjunctivitis can worsen and turn into temporary corneal inflammation. Sometimes this can even lead to incurable blindness.
Infected animals can no longer or only have difficulty orienting themselves in alpine terrain. Therefore, locomotion and foraging are only possible to a limited extent.
Incurable animals are killed
According to the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, animals that have become terminally blind are killed by the ranger. This is in the interest of animal welfare.
Therefore, it is very important to protect the suede, which has a potential to heal. Therefore, the hunting ban applies. (support)
