Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
The timing of migration periods is closely linked to seasonal changes and as unpredictable climate conditions increase, barren-ground caribou must migrate over larger distances. [26] [25] Migration is dictated by the access to easily available lichen. [24] An increased distance of migration places further stress and energy expense on the caribou.
Grant's caribou, originally R. granti Allen, [10] was described as a small, pale form endemic to the west end of the Alaska Peninsula and nearby islands. [10] It was later brought under Arctic caribou (Rangifer arcticus Richardson 1829) as R. a. granti with the same limited distribution.
Caribou are large-scale migratory animals and have been known to travel up to 50 miles (80 km) a day. The migratory activities of caribou are usually driven by weather conditions and food availability. [16] Changes in caribou migration can be problematic for Alaska Natives, who depend on caribou for food. [16]
The fact that caribou migrate long distances means they tend to have longer legs. Depending on the region in which caribou or reindeer live, their physical characteristics will vary slightly.
Grant's caribou was described as a small, pale form occupying a limited range at the west end of the Alaska Peninsula and nearby islands. Originally described as Rangifer granti (Allen, 1902), [ 6 ] it was brought under barren-ground caribou as R. arcticus granti [ 7 ] [ 8 ] [ 9 ] because its size and form were closer to the barren-ground type ...
The smaller Central Arctic herd (32,000 in 2002), as well as the 123,000 animal Porcupine Caribou herd, likewise migrate through the Brooks range on their annual journeys in and out of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The migration path of the Porcupine Caribou herd is the longest of any terrestrial mammal on earth. [12] [13]
The arctic tundra often lacks sunshine. Summer days last 24 hours, yet the sun remains low on the horizon. During the winter, the opposite occurs, and the entire landscape is dark.
The global reindeer population is estimated at five million, including 900,000 caribou in Alaska. Predation and disease determine reindeer herd size presently. Overhunting has historically ...