MARMOT HUNTING IN THE HIGH TAUERN MOUNTAINS

An unforgettable adventure in the high mountains

Hunting in the high mountains is not only a physical challenge, but also an emotional experience. This is exactly what we, Jana and Patrick, experienced on our marmot hunt in the majestic Hohe Tauern. The day we spent there was filled with intense moments - from the arduous climb to the precise shot. Everything a hunter's heart desires was there: excitement, challenge and a deep gratitude towards nature.

The ascent - the first steps into adventure

The day started early. The ascent into the mountains was a challenge in itself. Every step took us deeper into the high mountains, and the breathtaking backdrop of the surrounding peaks accompanied us on our way. The steep, sometimes rugged paths challenged both our physical fitness and our mental strength. The clear, cool mountain air and glorious weather gave us extra energy as we got closer and closer to our destination: we followed the high valley almost to the head of the valley, where the marmot hunt would begin.

Encounter with the mountain shepherds and the goal in sight

Our first stop took us to the mountain hut. There we met the shepherds, who asked us to hunt the marmot population that lives on the mountain meadows. These animals - also known as marmots or mankai in Austria - leave dangerous burrows in the meadows that pose a threat to both humans and animals. We left the hut and continued along the high valley, always on the lookout for the marmots. It was an indescribable moment when we finally spotted the first animals.

The first sight

Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, a shrill whistle echoed from the mountain face. Everyone in the group reacted immediately, turning in the direction from which the call had come. We scanned the area with binoculars and soon we had spotted the marmot, almost like a small gift from nature. What a joy it is to discover a wild animal in its natural environment almost unexpectedly. The MINOX X-Range 10×42 was a valuable aid. But we hadn't reached the end of the valley yet, so after enjoying the view for a short while, we continued into this magical high mountain valley. The view was breathtaking, but we had to hurry as our destination was even further away. We finally reached the head of the valley a little later, the decisive moment had arrived. But in the mountains, every step is full of considerations. The wind, the light conditions and your own position all have to be taken into account. In the end, Jana was still able to enjoy her first marmot.

Patience and precision in the mountains

Now it was Patrick's turn. On the opposite side of the slope, he and the stalking guide discovered more marmot burrows. But hunting in the mountains is not an easy endeavour. The first marmot was in a spot that offered no bullet trap. The next one was too far away and difficult to shoot in the bright sunlight. Finally, only the third animal remained, but it didn't want to come out of the burrow. Patience was required - marmot hunting is a game of waiting, observing and constantly reassessing the situation.

The challenges of mountain hunting are immense, but with the right equipment and an experienced stalking guide, it is possible to assess the situations correctly. We relied on reliable optics, such as the MINOX X-Range 10×42 binoculars with their rangefinder and the MINOX RS-4 3-12×56 BDC riflescope, which enabled us to shoot accurately at long distances. Gone are the days when you had to estimate the trajectory of the bullet, which is a great help for hunting. The MINOX RS-4 not only offers a clear view, but also uncomplicated handling, even in changing light conditions. The ballistic turret allows us to react quickly and safely at different distances - an indispensable aid when hunting in the mountains, where every detail counts. A long-range shot was not necessary in our case, just a little patience. But then Patrick would finally get the chance to hunt a suitable marble.

The shot - the moment of concentration and joy

The stalking guide stoops down and indicates in short, vigorous movements that we should follow. The rucksack is quickly placed on a large stone slab, the rifle is placed on top, a safe position is assumed and a whispered ‘if you're ready, then shoot, it fits’ is heard. Seconds later, the reticle hits the target. You close your eyes again and take a deep breath. His finger now gently squeezes the trigger of the Sauer 101 and the shot breaks. Through the fire, Patrick sees the marmot slump down and hears a ‘Weidmannsheil’ from the stalking guide. Excited and grateful, he takes a deep breath.

The recovery of game

But the real challenge begins after the shot: Retrieving the game from the steep terrain. Every kilo you carry off the mountain reminds you of how hard you have worked for it. The effort and the sweat stay with you and that's what makes mountain hunting so special. The weight of the marmots is rather negligible in this respect and cannot be compared with chamois or red deer, but this in no way detracts from the extraordinary hunting experience.

Der abschließende Blick – Ein unvergesslicher Tag in den Bergen

It was a day full of emotions for us - from the intense ascent to the joy of the successful hunt. The weather played into our hands and the clear view made the experience even better. But it wasn't just the success that made this day so special, it was the feeling of being at one with nature and so close to the sky. It is precisely these moments that make hunting in the mountains so fascinating. They challenge us, push us to our limits and reward us with memories that last forever.

Photography by Romadhony Efendi