Caribou

Caribou (Rangifer tarandus) are a medium-sized member of the cervid, or deer, family. They have a long snout, short tail, and a short, stocky body that conserves heat. Long legs and large hooves help caribou move through deep snow.

Caribou are an essential part of Indigenous culture and the lives of northern communities. In Wapusk National Park, caribou remain interconnected with Indigenous values, beliefs and harvesting practices.

Barren-ground and eastern migratory caribou utilize Wapusk National Park. The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) has recommended listing these caribou as threatened and endangered, respectively. Both are recommended for up-listing to Canada's Species at Risk Act.

The eastern migratory population ranges along the Hudson Bay coast, from northern Manitoba to northern Quebec and Labrador. It includes several distinct herds, including the Cape Churchill herd, which is most commonly found in Wapusk National Park. This herd is estimated at between 1,000 to 3,000 animals. The herd spends much of the year moving between seasonal habitats within and around the park.

During winter, Cape Churchill caribou occupy the southern portion of Wapusk, where the boreal forest provides shelter from harsh conditions. In summer, they migrate north toward the tundra near Cape Churchill, travelling distances of up to 200 kilometres to reach their calving grounds.

Seasonal movements are closely tied to survival. In winter, caribou rely heavily on lichens found in the forests, which provide an important energy source. In spring, females return to traditional calving areas and give birth within a short, synchronized period. This timing increases the likelihood of calf survival by overwhelming predators. Calves can stand and move shortly after birth, which is critical when predators such as wolves, and occasionally polar bears, are present.

Caribou are unique among deer in that both males and females grow antlers. These are shed and regrown each year. In Wapusk, the timing of antler shedding can provide clues about seasonal behaviour, such as calving and breeding areas. Shed antlers also play a role in the ecosystem, as they are chewed by other animals seeking essential minerals.

Remote camera images

Check out some of the curious caribou that stopped by our cameras!