Caribou migration in Canada
In July every year, Barrenground caribou cows & calves of the major Canadian herds migrate south from their calving grounds to intercept the bulls near the tree-line. During this period the cows & calves will swell into what is known as 'bunches' - often at water crossings - and then dissipate again. This cycle continues over a two to three week period.
Once the bull caribou are met, the animals spread out and graze in small groups in the late summer migratory lull, while they feed and build up fat stores to endure the upcoming winter and mating period. The autumn period is the best time to view caribou as they are relaxed and easier to approach.
Population fluctuations
The decline in populations of the Canadian caribou herds has been a growing and alarming issue over the past several years, although according to biologists recent indicators are that some of the herds are slowly again replenishing in numbers, while other herds continue to shrink. It is not known if these population fluctuations are caused by increasing mining and other developments in the caribou range, or if it the result of a natural cycle."
Terry Elliot was leading a trip to watch the caribou migration in northern Canada
This photo of a Barrenground caribou ‘bunch' of cows & calves during their great summer migration was taken by wildlife guide Terry Elliott in northern Canada.
