Posted by Wildlife in the Bernese Oberland (Switzerland)
The Bernese Oberland is one of the most species-rich regions in the Swiss Alps.
From forested valleys and alpine meadows to steep rock faces and high mountain zones,
the diverse landscapes provide habitats for a wide range of animals.
Many species are well adapted to life at high altitude and can be observed with some luck while hiking or traveling by mountain railway.
Below is an overview of typical mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects that live in the Bernese Oberland.
Some are relatively easy to spot, others are extremely shy and rarely seen.
Mammals in the Bernese Oberland
Alpine ibex
The Alpine ibex is one of the most iconic animals of the Alps.
It lives mainly in steep, rocky terrain above the tree line and is easily recognized by its massive, curved horns.
Ibex can often be seen near exposed ridges and cliffs.
Chamois
Smaller and more agile than the ibex, the chamois is a superb climber.
It inhabits rocky slopes, alpine grassland and forest edges and is commonly seen at dawn or dusk.
Red deer
The red deer is the largest deer species in Switzerland.
It prefers forests and open meadows at lower and mid elevations and is most active during early morning and evening hours.
Alpine marmot
Marmots live in colonies on alpine pastures and are famous for their loud warning whistles.
They spend much of the year hibernating and are mainly visible in summer.
European lynx
The lynx has returned to parts of Switzerland and also inhabits remote forest areas of the Bernese Alps.
It is extremely elusive and rarely seen, despite a stable population.
Wolf
In recent years, individual wolves have been recorded in the Bernese Alps.
So far, sightings remain rare, but experts expect a gradual expansion of wolf territories in the region.
Brown bear
Brown bears were extinct in Switzerland for over a century.
Occasional individuals have crossed into the country from Italy or Austria,
but confirmed sightings in the Bernese Oberland remain exceptional.
Birdlife in the Bernese Oberland
Golden eagle
The golden eagle is one of the largest birds of prey in Europe.
It can often be seen circling high above valleys and ridges while searching for prey.
Bearded vulture (Lammergeier)
Once extinct in the Alps, the bearded vulture has been successfully reintroduced.
With its enormous wingspan, it is one of the most impressive birds in the region.
Alpine chough
This intelligent member of the crow family is common at high elevations.
Alpine choughs are often seen near mountain restaurants and cable car stations.
Ptarmigan
Perfectly adapted to alpine conditions, the ptarmigan changes its plumage with the seasons,
turning white in winter for camouflage in snow.
Reptiles and amphibians
Asp viper
The asp viper is one of the few venomous snakes in Switzerland.
It prefers sunny, rocky slopes and lower alpine meadows.
Mountain lizard
This small lizard is well adapted to cold climates and is often seen basking on rocks during sunny weather.
Alpine newt
Known for its striking orange belly, the alpine newt lives in mountain ponds and small lakes.
Insects of the alpine region
Apollo butterfly
The Apollo butterfly is a rare and protected species that thrives in flower-rich alpine meadows.
Alpine longhorn beetle
This striking beetle is known for its extremely long antennae and is typically found in old or decaying wood.
The animals listed here represent only a small part of the rich biodiversity of the Bernese Oberland.
The region plays an important role in Swiss nature conservation and provides protected habitats for many alpine species.
See also:
Flora of the Bernese Oberland
Herbs of the Bernese Alps