Swiss Review / December 2021 / No.6 13 saw the biggest-ever survey of mammals in the country. According to the Swiss Society of Wildlife Biology, which conducted the survey, there are now 12 more recorded species in Switzerland than there were 25 years ago. Other than the golden jackal, these include the Valais shrew (Sorex antinorii) and a type of bat called the crypticmyotis (Myotis crypticus). Previously eradicated species like the wolf and the otter have also returned to Switzerland. Commenting on its survey, the Swiss Society of Wildlife Biology says that while large species like the golden jackal, the wolf and the ibex attract a great deal of attention, smaller mammals tend to get minimal coverage. Some of these species are coming under increasing pressure. For example, polecat and weasel numbers are falling. And hare habitats are shrinking too. “Hares now have barely any chance of raising their young properly in many places around the country,” says Schnidrig. Species with specific habitat requirements are generally having a hard time in Switzerland, but animals that can handle various conditions are faring well, he concludes. Time will tell how the golden jackal copes in Swiss climes. Golden jackal sightings are on the rise in Switzerland. Photo: Keystone otherwise colder, snowy regions of countries like Switzerland. However, Christian Stauffer believes that the role of climate change in the spread of the golden jackal is unproven. There are no studies to back the theory up either. Twelve new mammal species in Switzerland The golden jackal is not the only new mammal in Switzerland. Last spring Taller, longer legs, smaller tail: the golden jackal compared to the fox. Photo: Keystone
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