Physical Characteristics:
- Size: Caribou are large animals with a shoulder height of around 3-5 feet and a weight ranging from 150 to 700 pounds.
- Coat: They have thick, insulating coats that help them withstand the cold Arctic temperatures. The color of their fur can vary, but it is typically brown, gray, or white.
- Antlers: Both male and female caribou have antlers, but the antlers of bulls are generally larger and more elaborate. Caribou antlers are unique in that they are flattened and have multiple points branching out from them.
Behavior and Habitat:
- Herds: Caribou are social animals and typically live in large herds that can number in the hundreds or even thousands. These herds migrate long distances seasonally to find food and better grazing grounds.
- Migration: Caribou are well-known for their long migrations. They cover hundreds of miles each year, traveling from their winter ranges to their summer ranges and back. These migrations are driven by food availability and weather conditions.
- Diet: Caribou are herbivores and their diet primarily consists of lichens, mosses, and grasses. They also consume leaves, twigs, and other plant matter.
- Predators: Caribou are preyed upon by various predators, including wolves, bears, and wolverines. They use their speed and agility to escape from predators and can run up to 50 miles per hour.
- Conservation: Some caribou populations are threatened by habitat loss, overhunting, and climate change. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these animals and their habitats.
Caribou are an essential part of the Arctic ecosystem, providing sustenance for the indigenous people of the region and playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the environment.