Mammals

In Ukkusiksalik National Park, Arctic foxes are culturally valuable animals, traditionally hunted by Inuit for their furs. The warmth of the Arctic fox fur provided essential protection against winter cold, making it crucial for clothing and also as an item for subsistence hunting.

Barren-ground caribou, recognized for their impressive antlers present in both males and females, are an ecologically and culturally significant species in Ukkusiksalik National Park. Historically, these caribou were integral to the traditional lifestyle of those residing around Wager Bay and remain an important species to nearby Inuit communities in present times. Inuit have closely monitored their migratory patterns, often traveling significant distances to hunt when the caribou are not nearby. According to oral testimony from Inuit Elders, seasonal migrations have been essential for determining the availability of caribou. In early spring, caribou move towards the shoreline to escape inland mosquito swarms, while in winter, they migrate inland. As these herds migrate, their significance shifts, with different communities relying on them at various times of the year. Barren-ground caribou primarily feed on moss, lichen, and plants, but have also been observed chasing and eating lemmings when encountered.

Beluga whales play an important role in maintaining the health of the marine ecosystem in Ukkusiksalik National Park. As both predator and prey, they are an integral part of the food web and support marine biodiversity. For Inuit who actively hunt in the region, these whales are an important source of food, oil, and bones for tools and art. Knowledge passed down orally describes various locations along Wager Bay where Inuit have hunted belugas during the summer months for generations.

Polar bears are commonly found in Ukkusiksalik National Park, a region that provides crucial habitat for this species. Known as "Nanuq” in Inuktitut, these bears symbolize strength and resilience and are the largest land carnivores in North America, with adult males typically weighing 300-450 kg and stretching up to 3 meters from nose to tail. The park's conservation efforts support both traditional Inuit knowledge collection and scientific research, both of which aid in protecting bear habitat amidst challenges such as climate change. Over the decades, Inuit have observed fluctuations in Ukkusiksalik’s polar bear population, with sightings becoming more common in recent times according to oral testimony.