Introduction to Barren-Ground Caribou

Barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus) are a subspecies of caribou found in the northern regions of Canada, Alaska, and Greenland. These caribou are known for their ability to survive in harsh, barren environments, where they feed on lichens and other vegetation found in the tundra.

Physical Characteristics

Barren-ground caribou have adapted to life in the north by developing certain physical characteristics that make them well-suited for the harsh environment. These include:

• Large and round hooves that help them easily traverse through deep snow and soft terrain.
• A thick, woolly coat that keeps them warm in temperatures as low as -40°C (-40°F).
• A wide, flat nose that helps them breathe in the cold, dry air of the tundra.

Behaviour and Migration

Barren-ground caribou are known for their impressive migrations, which can cover thousands of kilometres each year. These migrations are generally driven by the need to find food and avoid predators. During the winter months, caribou will often move southward to areas where there is more vegetation, while in the summer they will move northward to avoid biting insects and heat.

Conservation Status

Barren-ground caribou populations are currently listed as threatened in Canada and as a sensitive species in Alaska. One of the biggest threats to these caribou is the development of infrastructure such as roads, pipelines, and mines, which can disrupt their migration patterns and lead to habitat loss.

In order to preserve and protect barren-ground caribou populations, conservation efforts are being put in place, including the creation of protected areas, the regulation of hunting, and the reduction of human disturbance in caribou habitat.

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# Introduction to Barren-Ground Caribou

Barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus) are a subspecies of caribou found in the northern regions of Canada, Alaska, and Greenland. These caribou are known for their ability to survive in harsh, barren environments, where they feed on lichens and other vegetation found in the tundra.

## Physical Characteristics

Barren-ground caribou have adapted to life in the north by developing certain physical characteristics that make them well-suited for the harsh environment. These include:

- Large and round hooves that help them easily traverse through deep snow and soft terrain.
- A thick, woolly coat that keeps them warm in temperatures as low as -40°C (-40°F).
- A wide, flat nose that helps them breathe in the cold, dry air of the tundra.

## Behaviour and Migration

Barren-ground caribou are known for their impressive migrations, which can cover thousands of kilometres each year. These migrations are generally driven by the need to find food and avoid predators. During the winter months, caribou will often move southward to areas where there is more vegetation, while in the summer they will move northward to avoid biting insects and heat.

## Conservation Status

Barren-ground caribou populations are currently listed as threatened in Canada and as a sensitive species in Alaska. One of the biggest threats to these caribou is the development of infrastructure such as roads, pipelines, and mines, which can disrupt their migration patterns and lead to habitat loss.

In order to preserve and protect barren-ground caribou populations, conservation efforts are being put in place, including the creation of protected areas, the regulation of hunting, and the reduction of human disturbance in caribou habitat.