bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of Hematological Parameters in Woodland Caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) Blood Stored at 4°C
Authors: Piat G. , Semalulu S. , Florence Z. , Nolan J.
Published: June 2013

Eighteen free-ranging female woodland caribou were captured in northern Alberta in January and February 1993. Blood was collected into ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) tubes which were packaged in coolers containing ice packs, and transported to the laboratory where they arrived within 48 hrs of collection. Complete blood counts (CBC) were performed on five consecutive days to assess the stability of hematological parameters. Average values of hematocrit (HCT), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), mean cell volume (MCV), red cell distribution width (P-J3W), white blood cell count (WBC), and red blood cell count (RJ3C) remained stable with no statistically significant changes occurring during 5 days of post-collection storage at 4°C. Mean PvBC values exhibited significant differences (p<0.05) between geographic locations. Mean platelet volume (MPV) increased significantly (p<0.001) with storage time, while platelet (PLT) values decreased (p<0.001) over time and were significantly different (p<0.01) between locations. For optimal hematological results, it is recommended that sample analysis be performed within 24 hours of blood collection; however, if caribou blood samples are properly stored at 4°C, useful information may be obtained from stable parameters up to 5 days following collection.
Use of summer habitat by caribou on the north slope of a mountain near the Macmillan Pass, N.W.T.
Authors: Quayle James F. , Kershaw G. Peter
Published: June 2013

Habitat use by woodland caribou was investigated by counting pellet-groups, sampling phytomass, and evaluating topography in nine habitat-types on the north slope of an unnamed mountain near Macmillan Pass, N.W.T. Caribou pellets were most abundant in high elevation habitat-types, and pellet density was greatest in an alpine Lichen-Grass habitat-type with a slope of <1°. The high density of pellets in alpine areas may have resulted from of the use of cool, windy, alpine habitats by caribou seeking relief from insect harassment. There were no apparent relationships between pellet abundance, and phytomass of mosses, lichens, or graminoids, possibly as a result of caribou feeding and defecating in different habitats. The occurrence of pellets with a coalesced morphology in the barren Lichen-Grass habitat-type provided indirect evidence in support of a feeding cycle, whereby caribou visit lush habitats to feed, and return to open, alpine habitats to rest and ruminate.
Prevalence of Echinococcus granulosus and Taenia hydatigena in caribou in north-central Canada
Authors: Thomas Donald C.
Published: June 2013

There are few data on the prevalence and infection intensity of parasites in large samples of caribou (Rangifer tarandus). Therefore, differences related to sex, age, and season are unknown. The effect of parasites on the health and condition of caribou also is poorly known. From 1980 through 1987, 1258 barren-ground caribou (R.t. groenlandicus) were collected from the Beverly herd in north-central Canada. The prevalence in lungs of cysts of the hydatid tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus) increased significantly with age of caribou. Prevalence in females was 2% in the 2-5 year class and 8% in older individuals. Cysts were more prevalent in young females compared with young males. Reductions in physical condition and fecundity were not statistically significant. The prevalence of Taenia hydatigena cysts in livers increased significantly with age of host but not with sex and condition of the hosts. The use of parasite prevalence as an index of predation rate is discussed.
Attributes of Woodland Caribou Migration Habitat in West-Central British Columbia
Authors: Lance Art N. , Mills Barry
Published: June 2013

We examined sites used by 73 caribou located by radio-tracking during spring migration through a forested travel corridor. The physical and botanical characteristics of these sites were described to find what features (if any) distinguished them from the forest at large. Raised and open aspect, sparse tree cover, free-draining soils, and a simple flora with abundant lichens were features common to all the sites, but were lacking in the denser forest around. Scores for these attributes were ordinated by multidimensional scaling of similarities and differences from site to site. Separate searings for (i) terrain features, (ii) tree cover attributes, and (iii) floristic content each yielded a single cluster of points with few outliers and no particular pattern or trend. The inference is that the sites conformed to a single type with limited variation. A profile of the distinguishing characteristics was compiled and then applied to transects through the general migration area by persons unfamiliar with it beforehand. Sites which matched the profile proved easy to identify, even though they comprised only a small proportion of the area. Sites with high scores for the most distinctive attributes had more caribou at the time of radio-tracking.
Population dynamics of the Taimyr reindeer population
Authors: Pavlov B.M. , Kolpashchikov L.A. , Zyryanov V.A.
Published: June 2013

The Taimyr herd of wild reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L.) is one of the three largest herds of wild Rangifer in the world, and numbered about 600 000 in 1993. The herd grew continuously from 1959 to 1990, and is now stable due primarily to intensive commercial harvesting along the Khatanga River. Meat from the commercial harvest is processed and sold in population centers in the northern Krasnoyarsk region, particularly Norilsk. The herd has expanded its range to about 1.5 million km2, but movements to the southwestern portion of the winter range may have been impeded by pipeline, road and railroad construction, and winter shipping of ore on the lower Yenisey River.
Proc. Issue No.4 - 2nd Int. Arctic Ungulate Conference
Authors: Haugerud (ed.) Rolf Egil
Published: June 2013

The conference was arranged at the University of Alaska Fairbanks USA 13-17 August 1995
7th North Armerican Caribou Conference, 19-21 August 1996, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Authors: Haugerud (ed. in chief) Rolf Egil , Lankester et al. (iss. eds.) Murray
Published: June 2013

The 7th North American Caribou Conference was held August 19-21 1996, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada where 136 registrants participated in 3 days of sessions and subsequent field tours.
Defining the Pen Islands Caribou Herd of southern Hudson Bay
Authors: Abraham Kenneth F. , Thompson John E.
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we describe the Pen Islands Herd of caribou, the largest aggregation of caribou in Ontario (it also occupies a portion of northeastern Manitoba). Photographic counts showed the herd had a minimum population of 2300 in 1979, 4660 in 1986, 7424 in 1987 and 10 798 in 1994. Throughout the 1980s, the Pen Islands caribou exhibited population behaviour similar to migratory barren-ground caribou herds, although morphology suggests they are woodland caribou or possibly a mixture of subspecies. The herd had well-defined traditional tundra calving grounds, formed nursery groups and large mobile post-calving aggregations, and migrated over 400 km between tundra summer habitats and boreal forest winter habitats. Its migration took it into three Canadian jurisdictions (Ontario, Manitoba, Northwest Territories) and it was important to residents of both Manitoba and Ontario. It is clear that the herd should be managed as a migratory herd and the critical importance of both the coastal and variable large winter ranges should be noted in ensuring the herd's habitat needs are secure.
Status of woodland caribou in Ontario: 1996
Authors: Cumming Harold G.
Published: June 2013

Over 20 000 woodland caribou were reported in Ontario during 1966, the highest figure ever published. Photographic counts of the Pen Islands herd, bordering Manitoba, have shown constant increases from 2300 in 1979 to 10 800 in 1994. Elsewhere in Ontario, estimates have been declining, from 13 000 in 1965 to 11 000 in 1989 to under 10 000 in 1996, a trend that may or may not be real because of differing survey methods. On the Hudson Bay Lowlands (excluding the Pen Islands caribou) 8600 were reported in 1965, 7200 in 1989, 5500 in 1996, an apparent decline. The transitional forest populations has remained stable. Estimated caribou numbers inhabiting the true boreal forest have dropped from nearly 4000 in 1965 to 2700 in 1996, but this decrease was not confirmed by careful within-district breakdowns of sub-populations by habitat types and may be an artifact of classification from districts to regions. The sharpest decrease was reported for the Central Region, north east of Lake Superior, where estimates dropped from 500 in 1965 to 475 in 1989 and to 68 in 1996. Individual caribou bands approach recognized minimum numbers for isolated populations, and even totals by sub-population remain low: over 1300 in commercial forests, about 500 in potentially commercial forests, and 8-900 in parks. Due to small numbers in widely dispersed band-locations, the potential for human disturbance affecting these forest dwelling caribou is substantial.
Status of woodland caribou in Saskatchewan
Authors: Rettie Jim , Rock Terry , Messier Francois
Published: June 2013

Recent research has shown that woodland caribou in Saskatchewan exist as relatively separate populations within a metapopulation. Preliminary analyses show that individuals within all populations are selecting peatland habitat types (i.e., fens and bogs) throughout the year. Despite an absence of hunting, populations south of the Precambrian shield appear to be declining slowly, while those on the southern margin of the shield may be declining more rapidly. The apparent population decline is likely due to high rates of predation, especially on neonates. To maintain viable caribou populations in the region, forestry operations must be managed to maintain adequate amounts of preferred habitat types and connections among populations. At a coarse scale, preferred habitat is that which acts as a refuge from predators. Additional information is required to categorize specific peatland types, as data in the existing provincial forest inventory are inadequate for both selection analysis and management purposes. Ongoing research into revisions to the forest inventory and analyses of bog and fen types selected by caribou are needed to focus future management strategies.
Status of woodland caribou in Alberta
Authors: Edmonds J.
Published: June 2013

A recent review of woodland caribou {Rangifer tarandus caribou) status in Alberta estimated that there are between 3600 and 6700 caribou occupying 113 000 km2 of habitat. There are two ecotypes of caribou in Alberta; the mountain ecotype in the west central region and the boreal ecotype primarily in the north. Mountain caribou populations are stable or declining and boreal populations, where data are available, appear to be stable or declining slowly. A major initiative in caribou management in Alberta has been the development of the Woodland Caribou Conservation Strategy. This document was developed over two and a half years by a committee of multi-stakeholder representatives. The past five years has seen an increase in baseline inventory and applied research jointly funded by government, industry and universities, addressing a wide range of management issues from caribou response to logging to interactions of moose, wolves and caribou in the boreal ecosystem. Land use conflicts on caribou range remain high with timber harvesting, oil and gas development, peat moss extraction, coal mining, agricultural expansion and increasing road access overlapping. Cumulative effects of these disturbances are poorly understood and have received little attention to date.
The status of Rangifer tarandus caribou in Yukon, Canada
Authors: Farnell R. , Florkiewicz R. , Kuzyk G. , Egli K.
Published: June 2013

This paper summarizes the population trends as well as research and management programs for woodland caribou {Rangifer tarandus caribou) in Yukon. Most herds are stable although not all are counted regularly and systematic monitoring of herds remains an essential need. Over the past decade the Southern Lakes, Aishihik, and Finlayson herds have been well studied and provide valuable models for guiding Yukon management programs. Over harvest and the spread of agriculture, forestry and mining are ongoing human activities are of concern to caribou managers.
Trade-offs between wood supply and caribou habitat in northwestern Ontario
Authors: McKenney Daniel , Nippers Bryan , Racey Gerald , Davis Rob
Published: June 2013

Woodland caribou habitat management in northwestern Ontario is a complex spatial problem. The Strategic Forest Management Model (SFMM), a linear programming PC-based planning tool being developed in Ontario, was used to examine the impacts of alternative management strategies on caribou habitat. The management alternatives investigated included the cessation of timber management and maximising the present value of wood production without any explicit concern (in the model) for caribou. Three major findings are worth noting: 1) trying to maintain prime caribou habitat within active Forest Management Units will come at a cost to wood supply but the cost will depend on the absolute amount of area affected and the spatial configuration of that land in relation to mills. The cost of maintaining caribou habitat in one management unit at a level about 25 000 hectares is roughly $324 000 per year (about 3 cents for each Ontario resident). The imposition of an even-flow constraint on wood production is in fact potentially more costly; 2) Given the region is heavily dominated by spruce aged 90 years and over, forest succession and fire disturbance will likely cause large declines in prime caribou habitat in the near to medium term (20 to 40 years) even if no timber harvesting occurs; 3) The complexities of the trade-offs in this resource management problem highlight the limitations of any single modelling tool to satisfactorily address all issues. Planners need to take advantage of a wide range of analytical techniques to quantify the issues and formulate integrated policies.
Progress towards the experimental reintroduction of woodland caribou to Minnesota and adjacent Ontario
Authors: Jordan Peter A. , Nelson James L. , Pastor John
Published: June 2013

Woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) are native to Minnesota but started to decline in the mid 1800s and disappeared from the state by 1940. Their demise had been attributed to extensive timber harvest and ovethunting; but more recently mortality from the meningeal worm, Parelaphostrongylus tenuis, carried by white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and increased prédation by timber wolves (Canis lupus) and black bears (Ursus americanus) have been suggested as additional causes. We describe a current initiative to explore feasibility of restoring caribou to the boundary waters region of Minnesota and Ontario. Feasibility studies have been conducted under the guidance of the North Central Catibou Corporation (NCCC), a non-governmental organization with representation from relevant state, federal, Native American, and Canadian agencies. Results indicate a) Within Minnesota the most suitable site for woodland caribou lies within the eastern sector of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), and this is contiguous with a similarly suitable sector of Ontario's Quetico Provincial Park: Together these comprise the recommended 1300-km2 Boundary Waters Caribou Region (BWCR); b) Vegetation in the BWCR has changed little since the 1920s when caribou were last present other than effects of fire suppression; c) Level of white-tailed deer, hence the meningeal worm, is so low in the BWCR that this factor is unlikely to impede survival of re-introduced caribou; d) While wolf numbers within the wider region are relatively high, their impacts may be minimized if caribou are released in small, widely scattered groups; in addition, an abundance of lakes with islands affords good summer-time prédation security; e) Threat to calves from black bears, probably more numerous than in earlier times, appears lessened by the security of lakeshores and islands; and f) A simulation model, combining knowledge from elsewhere with the BWCR assessment, suggests that released animals have a 0.2 to 0.8 chance of increasing in numbers during the first 20 years post-release. Strategies for maximizing success are identified. NCCC has concluded that the only practical approach that remains for determining restoration feasibility is through experimental releases or caribou. While promise of eventual success appears only moderate, the NCCC feels that costs and uncertainties associated with the experiment are justified by the environmental benefits from a success. Even if the effort fails, valuable knowledge would accrue for conservation biologists in general. An action plan is outlined, and progress and problems in selling the caribou initiative are discussed.
Using caribou knowledge in expanding the Wabakimi protected area
Authors: Duinker Peter N. , Armstrong Ted R. , Hyer Bruce T. , Petersen Bruce
Published: June 2013

When Wabakimi Wilderness Park was created in 1983, conservation of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) was one of the primary considerations. Twelve years later, in April 1995, the Government of Ontario announced that the Park, measuring some 155 000 ha, was to be expanded into a ca. 890 000 ha protected area. This was done following 2.5 yr of deliberations of the Wabakimi Park Boundary Committee. The Committee tried to reach consensus on an expanded protected area by examining a variety of options in terms of criteria related to a range of key values, one of which was woodland caribou. The analysis procedure involved dividing the 1.25-million-ha study area into more than sixty "assessment units". These were defined primarily on the basis of approximate sub-watershed boundaries. Each assessment unit was ranked on a five-level scale with respect to goodness for each value, including seasonal caribou habitat. High-value habitats for wintering, calving, and migration dominated the assessment of habitat importance for caribou.The initial assessment phase included six park expansion concepts ranging in size from just over 200 000 ha to about 1 million ha. One of the concepts (about 750 000 ha), was based specifically on the caribou value. In the second phase, four refined options were examined, ranging from just under 600 000 to roughly a million ha. Two additional options were added to the four and submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources for consideration. The Committee was, in the end, unable to reach full consensus on which of the final options to recommend. However, upon consideration of the Committee's final report and other input, the Ontario Government announced in April 1995 the more than five-fold expansion. The new protected area contains about 475 000 ha of high-value caribou habitat. Caribou were a key value in determining both the ultimate size and configuration of the expansion.
The Northeast Region Standing Committee on Woodland Caribou (NERSC): an example of a co-operative management partnership
Authors: Hamilton George D. , Edey Colin
Published: June 2013

This paper describes the history and current status of NERSC (Northeast Region Standing Committee on Woodland Caribou), a government/industry partnership established to address issues related to industrial development and the conservation of woodland caribou {Rangifer tarandus caribou) in northeastern Alberta. In mid 1991, NERSC was established with broad participation from the oil and gas and forestry industries and relevant government agencies. Its primary role has been as an advisory body to the government through the regional environmental resource management committee. Since its inception, it has become an open forum for the annual review of industrial operating guidelines based on adaptive management. NERSC has been highly successful at attracting financial support from various sponsors and co-ordinating appropriate research and monitoring programs. Key achievements include: 1) greatly enhanced understanding of problems, issues and positions among its diverse membership related to resource development and caribou management; 2) greatly enhanced delineation of important caribou habitats, and improved understanding of population status and limiting factors; 3) modified and more effective land use strategies; and 4) a recognized collaborative partnership.
Developing a woodland caribou habitat mosaic on the Ogoki-Nakina North Forests of northwestern Ontario
Authors: Armstrong I. , Swant G. , Timmermann H.R.
Published: June 2013

The Ogoki-North Nakina Forests consist of (10 638 km2) unroaded boreal forest approximately 400 km northeast of Thunder Bay, Ontario (lat 50°- 51°31'N, long 86°30'- 89°W). Woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) inhabit discrete portions within these forests based on minimal current and past historical data. As part of the Forest Management Planning process, for the period 1997-2097, a woodland caribou habitat mosaic has been developed to coordinate present and future forest management activities with the retention and development of current and future woodland caribou habitat. Several criteria including, past fire history, forest structure, age, species composition, proximity to current road access and location of existing and potential caribou habitat, helped identify and delineate 50 mosaic harvest blocks. Each harvest block will be logged in one of five 20 year periods over a 100 year rotation (1997¬2097). The harvest blocks have been developed to simulate a pattern of past wildfire history in an area that has not been subjected to past forest management activities, while managing for woodland caribou, a locally featured species.
Experimental log hauling through a traditional caribou wintering area
Authors: Cumming Harold G. , Hyer Bruce T.
Published: June 2013

A 3-year field experiment (fall 1990-spring 1993) showed that woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) altered their dispersion when logs were hauled through their traditional wintering area. Unlike observations in control years 1 and 3, radio-collared caribou that had returned to the study area before the road was plowed on January 6 of the experimental year 2, moved away 8-60 km after logging activities began. Seasonal migration to Lake Nipigon islands usually peaked in April, but by February 22 of year 2, 4 of the 6 had returned. The islands provide summer refuge from predation, but not when the lake is frozen. Tracks in snow showed that some caribou remained but changed locations. They used areas near the road preferentially in year 1, early year 2, and year 3, but moved away 2-5 km after the road was plowed in year 2. In a nearby undisturbed control area, no such changes occurred. Caribou and moose partitioned habitat on a small scale; tracks showed gray wolf (Canis lupus) remote from caribou but close to moose tracks. No predation on caribou was observed within the wintering area; 2 kills were found outside it. Due to the possibility of displacing caribou from winter refugia to places with higher predation risk, log hauling through important caribou winter habitat should be minimized.
Organization of the Reindeer Husbandry in Finland
Authors: Filppa Jouni
Published: June 2013

Reindeer husbandry is practised in the northern parts of Finland in a region that comprises almost all of the Province of Lapland and parts of the Province of Oulu and covers a good third of the Finnish surface. It is governed by the herding co-operative system. Each reindeer owner is a member of a herding co-operative, and the member's respective rights and responsibilities are determined on the basis of the number of reindeer owned by him. The 56 reindeer herding co-operatives have defined borders as well as different surfaces and reindeer volumes. All herding co-operatives are members of the Association of Herding Co-operatives
Reindeer Husbandry in Kuusamo
Authors: Säkkinen Osmo
Published: June 2013

The author is a reindeer owner and gives his impression about the situation of reindeer husbandry in an eastern reindeer area in Finland. Mmajor problems emerge: the growth of the predator populations, the grazing quality and the loss of pasture land to other activities (agriculture, forestry, tourism).
Rennäringen inför milleniumsskiftet 2000
Authors: Idivuoma Per Gustav
Published: June 2013

Reindeer owner and chairman of SSR Per Gustav Idivuoma summarizez the challenges of Swedish reindeer husbandry. The lecture was held in Swedish.
Renskötselforskning i Sverige
Authors: Danell Öje
Published: June 2013

About the reindeer husbandry research in Sweden.
Sametinget og reindriftspolitikken
Authors: Hætta Isak Mathis O.
Published: June 2013

The Sami Parliamen and the reindeer Husbandry
Reindriftsforvaltningen i Norge
Authors: Pedersen Roger
Published: June 2013

Statistics of reindeer husbandry in Norway, challenges, strategies and research demands.
Praktisk reinbeitebruk - tradisjonelle kunnskaper
Authors: Sara Mikkel Nils
Published: June 2013

Practical Reindeer Husbandry - Traditional Knowledge shows the knowledge to control a reindeer herd
Developing an ecologically and economically more stable semi-domestic reindeer management - a Finnish point of view
Authors: Kumpula Jouko
Published: June 2013

In arctic and sub-arctic regions semi-domestic reindeer management forms an important livelihood which should be able to provide enough income for herders. Reindeer management has natural limits of growth. Consequently it should be managed to optimise both the use of reindeer pastures and herder income. Reindeer pastures should be grazed at the economic carrying capabity level. This gives the maximum sustained harvest from reindeer stock and also the maximum sustained foraging from pastures. How is this to be accomplished? First, reliable knowledge about reindeer pastures in time and place is necessary: to estimate the quantity and quality of specific reindeer pastures within each management district, as well as the productive capacity and the changes in condition and productivity of those pastures. Secondly, data is needed on the accurate productivity of reindeer stock and the production costs for each management district. Thirdly, study the relationships between pasture resources and productivity of reindeer stock together with the effects of long-term reindeer densities on pasture condition and productivity. Finally, knowledge is needed about the effects of herd structure on reindeer stock productivity as well as the factors which restrict the use of reindeer pastures. Models based on adequate data could provide a useful tool for optimising the use of reindeer pastures and herder income. First the economic carrying capacity of reindeer pastures should be studied. Subsequently the economy of reindeer husbandry could be modelled with respect to reindeer stock density. Also the economy of reindeer husbandry based on different levels of feeding, and the effects of this husbandry practice on pastures, should be modelled. Models should be accurate and flexible enough to use when looking for solutions to practical questions and challenges in reindeer management.
Tradisjonelle vurderinger av livdyr
Authors: Oskal Anders Isak
Published: June 2013

Traditional valuation of livestock. It is based on many qualities, genetics, behaviour, appearance of animal and herd.
Optimal produktion
Authors: Danell Öje
Published: June 2013

Optimal Production in Reindeer Husbandry.

There are three ways to optimize the reindeer herd: 1) Adjusting the reindeer number to pasture resources. 2) Keeping as many productive animals in the herd as possible through slaughter. 3) Increasing the herd quality through selection.

Renhjorden bör optimeras så att den fungerar som en "skördeapparat" for bete och lämnar största möjliga bidrag till försörjningen för dem som lever av renskötsel. Det finns minst tre sätt att optimera renhjorden, nämligen (1) anpassning av djurantalet till betesresurserna så att djurens kondition och därmed produktiviteten kan bibehållas på hög nivå, (2) utforma renhjordens struktur med hjalp av slaktuttaget så att den innehåller så stor andel produktiva djur som möjligt, och (3) förbättra djurmaterialets produktionsmässiga kvalitet genom urval baserat på registrerad produktion. Betesanpassningen är den mest grundläggande åtgärden och ger den snabbaste effekten. Även hjordstrukturering är en åtgärd som ger relativt snabb effekt och som dessutom kan beslutas och utforas av den enskilde djuraägaren utan att störa den kollektiva renskötseln. Urval är en åtgärd som ger effekt först på längre sikt och därför kräver en konsekvent insats under en längre tid.
Key note presentations, 10th Arctic Ungualate Conference, Tromsø, Norway, 1999
Authors: Chief Editor in
Published: June 2013

Two hundred delegates from 14 countries attended and presented more than 150 scientific papers, making it one of the biggest Arctic Ungulate Conferences ever. The scientific and social programme as well as the abstracts have been published in Rangifer Report No. 4, 1999. In an important break with normal practice, keynote speakers included scientists of international reputation who do not normally work with Arctic ungulates. They were asked to review recent work in northern species/ecosystems thus providing the conference with novel criticism and new perpectives. Their papers are published in this volume. Delegates' papers will be published in later issues of Rangifer. The Conference also included a Circumpolar PhD-Network in Arctic Environmental Studies (CAES) workshop: "Reindeer 2000", attended by 47 participants presenting 25 student contributions, 5 keynote lectures and 3 introductory speeches. A Rangifer Special Issue with workshop papers is planned for publication later in 2000.
10th Arctic Ungulate Conference
Authors: Blix Arnoldus Schytte
Published: June 2013

The 10th Arctic Ungulate Conference was organised by the Department of Arctic Biology and held at the University of Tromsø, Norway, 9-13 August 1999. The conference continued a series of nine conferences devoted to Arctic ungulates, including five International Reindeer/Caribou Symposia, two International Muskox Symposia and two Arctic Ungulate Conferences. Two hundred delegates from 14 countries attended and presented more than 150 scientific papers, making it one of the biggest Arctic Ungulate Conferences ever. The scientific and social programme as well as the abstracts have been published in Rangifer Report No. 4, 1999.
Functional and comparative digestive system anatomy of Arctic ungulates
Authors: Hofmann R. R.
Published: June 2013

Dietary niche, feeding type classification and seasonal strategies of Rangifer tarandus and Ovibos moschatus discussed in relation to the anatomy of their digestive system. Classification criteria for the flexible feeding type system, originally established in bovids and later adapted to cervids, are substantiated and critically discussed in the light of recent attempts to invalidate the system. Eurasian mountain reindeer, North American barren-ground caribou, Svalbard reindeer and Victoria Island caribou are seasonally adaptable, opportunistic ruminants of the intermediate feeding type but the long evolutionary sepatation of Svalbard reindeer has modified several morphological features for winter survival without lichen, resulting in better adaptation to fibrous forage. Muskoxen, despite their seasonal selectivity, are typical grass and roughage eaters with extremely long mean retention time. Detailed data on the entire digestive system from muzzle to anus on both species are still insufficient and extended studies are worthwhile for understanding their nutritional niche and feeding adaptations.
Aspects of the ecology of mat-forming lichens
Authors: Crittenden P. D.
Published: June 2013

Lichen species in the genera Cladonia (subgenus Cladina), Cetraria, Stereocaulon and Alectoria are important vegetation components on well-drained terrain and on elevated micro-sites in peatlands in boreal-Arctic regions. These lichens often form closed mats, the component thalli in which grow vertically upwards at the apices and die off in the older basal regions; they are therefore only loosely attached to the underlying soil. This growth habit is relatively unusual in lichens being found in <0.5% of known species. It might facilitate internal nutrienr recycling and higher growth rates and, together with the production of allelochemicals, it might underlie the considerable ecological success of mat-forming lichens; experiments to critically assess the importance of these processes are required. Mat-forming lichens can constitute in excess of 60% of the winter food intake of caribou and reindeer. Accordingly there is a pressing need for data on lichen growth rates, measured as mass increment, in order to help determine the carrying capacity of winter ranges for rhese herbivores and to better predict recovery rates following grazing. Trampling during the snow-free season fragments lichen thalli; mat-forming lichens regenerate very successfully from thallus fragments provided trampling does nor re-occur. Frequent recurrence of trampling creates disturbed habitats from which lichens will rapidly become eliminated consistent with J.P. Grime's CSR strategy theory. Such damage to lichen ground cover has occurred where reindeer or caribou are unable to migrate away from their winter range such as on small islands or where political boundaries have been fenced; it can also occur on summer range that contains a significant lichen component and on winter range where numbers of migrarory animals become excessive. Species of Stereocaulon, and other genera that contain cyanobacteria (most notably Peltigera and Nephroma), are among the principal agents of nitrogen fixation in boreal-arctic regions. Stereocaulon-dominated subarctic woodlands provide excellent model systems in which to investigate the role of lichens in nitrogen cycling. Mat-forming lichens are sensitive indicators of atmospheric deposition partly because they occur in open situations in which they intercept precipitation and particulates directly with minimal modification by vascular plant overstoreys. Data from both the UK and northern Russia are presented to illustrate geographical relationships between lichen chemistry and atmospheric deposition of nitrogen and acidity. The ecology of mat-fotming lichens remains under-researched and good opportunities exist for making significant contributions to this field including areas that relate directly to the management of arctic ungulates.
Rangifer and human interests
Authors: Anderson David G.
Published: June 2013

This article reviews biological and anthropological literatute on wild and tame Rangifer to demonstrate the powerful effect that this species has had on the imaginations of biologists, social scientists and local hunters. Through identifying a general 'human interest' in Rangifer, the author argues that there is great potential for these three communities to work together. To demonstrate this idea, the paper reviews several examples of successful and unsuccessful 'alliances' between local peoples and both natural and social scientists which have had a fundamental impact upon the history of these sciences. The paper examines recent theorerical models which suggest that human action is a major factor in the behaviour and ecology of the animals. The paper also analyses the ideas of many indigenous people for whom there is no categorical difference between semi-domesticated, semi-sedentary and migratory Rangifer through comparison with many 'anomalous' texts in English and Russian language wildlife biology. By reviewing the history of scholarly interest in Rangifer, the author argues that contemporary models of Rangifer behaviour and identity could be 'revitalised' and 'recalibrated' through the establishment of that dialogue between scientists and local peoples which so characterised the 19th century. Such a dialogue, it is argued, would help mediate many of the political conflicts now appearing in those districts where Rangifer migrate.
Comparative aspects of volatile fatty acid production in reindeer {Rangifer tarandus tarandus) in northern Norway and on South Georgia
Authors: Mathiesen Svein D. , Sørmo Wenche , Utsi Tove H. Aagnes
Published: June 2013

Dietary influence on pH and volatile fatty acids concentrations and production rates in the rumen and distal fermentation chamber (DFC) was investigated in Norwegian reindeer (Rangifer t. tarandus) on South Georgia in summer (SG), and in northern Norway in late summer (NS) and winter (NW). Mean [standard deviation (s)] ruminal pH was similar in SG teindeet (6.46, s = 0.13) and NW reindeer (6.45, s = 0.19), but significantly different from NS reindeer (6.87, s = 0.08)(P < 0.05). Mean DFC pH in SG reindeer (6.92, s = 0.12) and in NS reindeer (6.70, s = 0.16) did not differ significantly. In NW reindeer DFC pH (6.26, s = 0.20) was significantly lower than in the SG and NS animals (P < 0.05). Mean ruminal concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFA) was 92.4 mM (s = 13-3) in SG reindeer, which was significantly larger (P < 0.05) than in NS (71.5 mM, s = 10.2) and NW reindeer (73.3 mM, s = 9.7). In DFC mean VFA concentration was 51.3 mM (s = 11.7), and 48.8mM (s = 14.5) in SG and NW reindeer respectively, and significantly less than in NS reindeer (86.7mM, s = 5.4) (P < 0.05). Mean daily ruminal VFA rate of production was 246.4 kj/kg BM"" in SG teindeer, compared to 195.6 kj/kg BM"" in NS and 193.4 kJ/kgBM0 75 in NW reindeer. Mean daily VFA rate of production in DFC was 8.3 kj/kg BM0 75 in SG reindeer compared to 6.2 kj/kg BM07' in NS and 3.0 kj/kg BM"75 in NW reindeer. The summer pastures on SG and NS were of moderate quality in terms of ruminal VFA production. In winter in northern Norway when forage quality was assumed to be low, both ruminal and DFC pH were low. The high fermentation rate in winter was probably due to easily digestible carbohydrates in the lichens eaten. DFC seems to be of minor importance in these reindeer in terms of VFA energy yield.
Energy expenditure of free-living reindeer estimated by the doubly labelled water method
Authors: Gotaas Geir , Milne Eric , Haggarty Paul , Tyler Nicholas J.C.
Published: June 2013

The doubly labelled water (DLW) method was used to measure total energy expenditure (TEE) in three male reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) aged 22 months in winter (February) while the animals were living unrestricted at natural mountain pasture in northern Norway (69°20'N). The concentrations of 2H and l8O were measured in water extracted from samples of faeces collecred from the animals 0.4 and 11.2 days after injection of the isotopes. Calculated rates of water flux and CO2-production were adjusted to compensate for estimated losses of 2H in faecal solids and in methane produced by microbial fermentation of forage in the rumen. The mean specific TEE in the three animals was 3.057 W.kg-1 (range 2.436 - 3.728 W.kg1). This value is 64% higher than TEE measured by the DLW method in four captive, non-pregnant adult female reindeer in winter and probably mainly reflects higher levels of locomotor activity in the free-living animals. Previous estimates of TEE in free-living Rangifer in winter based on factorial models range from 3.038 W.kg-1 in female woodland caribou (R. t. caribou) to 1.813 W.kg-1 in female Svalbard reindeer (R. t. platyrhynchus). Thus, it seems that existing factorial models are unlikely to overestimate TEE in reindeer/caribou: they may, instead, be unduly conservative. While the present study serves as a general validation of the factorial approach, we suggest that the route to progress in the understanding of field energetics in wild ungulates is via application of the DLW method.
Genetic relationships of three Yukon caribou herds determined by DNA typing
Authors: Zittlau Keri , Coffin John , Farnell Richard , Kuzyk Gerald , Strobeck Curtis
Published: June 2013

In this paper we examine genetic relationships of caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in the Aishihik, Chisana, and Wolf Lake herds in the Yukon using DNA fingerprinting. The assignment test used in this analysis showed that the caribou herds were distinct. This finding is consistent with movement data from radio-collared caribou which demonstrates home range fidelity. We found a high level of heterozygosity and a genetic basis for population boundaries. DNA fingerprinting may provide an effective means to compare ecological and genetic relationships.
Increases in body weight and nutritional status of transplanted Alaskan caribou
Authors: Valkenburg Patrick , Spraker Ted H. , Hinkes Michael T. , Van Daele Lawrence H. , Tobey Robert W. , Sellers Richard A.
Published: June 2013

Body weight and natality rate in ungulates can be useful indices to nutririon, bur they may also be influenced by genetic and climatic factors. Because caribou {Rangifer tarandus granti) are distributed as discrete populations of metapopulations (i.e., herds) that are usually reproductively isolated from each other for unknown periods, it is difficult to separate the influence of genetics and nutrition on body weight, especially where historical data are lacking. To help elucidate the influence of nutrition on potential variation in body weight and natality of caribou in Alaska, we reviewed data for body weight and natality in 5 populations which resulted from Transplants to previously ungrazed ranges, or to areas where reindeer and caribou had been absent for many decades. In 2 of 5 populations body weight increased significantly, and likely increased in the other 3 populations, but data were insufficient. Natality rate increased in all 5 populations, proportion of fecund yearlings was high and 3 of the 5 newly established herds increased at about the maximum biological potential for the species (lambda=1.35). In the Adak transplant, a lactating yearling was documented. These 5 transplanted populations provide additional evidence that body weight and natality rate in Alaskan caribou are sensitive to changes in population density and relatively short-term (i.e., 10 years) increases in grazing pressure independenr of climate and genetics.
Ultimate pH values and bacteriological condition of meat and stress metabolites in blood of transported reindeer bulls
Authors: Wiklund E. , Rehbinder C. , Malmfors G. , Hansson I. , Danielsson-Tham M-L.
Published: June 2013

Twenty-three reindeer bulls, aged 2-3 years, fed during two winter months at the Vuolda reindeer research station in Arjeplog, Sweden, were used in the study. The first group of eight reindeer was moved from their feeding corral to a selection corral, captured by lasso and stunned with a captive bolt outside the selection corral. The second group of seven reindeer was moved to the selection corral, captured by lasso and restrained, after which they were loaded onto a lorry- and transported for 1 hour and then slaughtered. The third group of eight reindeer was moved to the selection corral and herded directly onto the lorry, without any manual handling. They were transported for 5 h and then slaughtered. In both transport groups, four reindeer were fitted with pre-programmed automatic blood sampling equipment (ABSE). ABSE sampled blood at predetermined times via a jugular vein catheter. Ultimate pH-values in three muscles (Mm. longissimus, triceps brachii and biceps femoris) were significantly lower in the group carefully handled and transported for 5 h compared with the other two groups. The physiological mechanisms behind these results are discussed. Samples from M. semimembranosus were collected at slaughter and after 2, 6 and 10 days of refrigerated storage (+4 °C). The samples were analysed for total counts of aerobic bacteria (pour-plated in Tryptone Glucose Extract Agar, Difco, incubated at 20 °C and 30 °C, respectively for 72 h), coliform bacteria 37 °C (pour-plated in Violet Red Bile Agar, Oxoid, incubated at 37 °C for 24 h), Enterococci (surface-plated onto Slantez and Bartley Agar, Oxoid, incubated at 44 °C for 48 h) and Bacillus cereus (surface-plated onto Blood Agar Plates (Blood Agar Base, Difco, supplemented with 5% defibrinated horse blood) 30 °C for 24 h). All samples fell in the range 'fit for consumption'. At slaughter, there was no difference in ASAT activity, urea and Cortisol concentrations between the two transported groups. However, the plasma ASAT activity and urea concentrations at slaughter were significantly lower in the non-transported group. In both transport groups, the plasma Cortisol concentrations increased during loading onto and unloading from the lorry. Abomasal lesions were observed in all treatment groups. It was concluded that reindeer showed an acute stress response to manual handling and transport.
Modeling growth of mandibles in the Western Arctic caribou herd
Authors: Ver Hoef Jay M. , Valkenburg Patrick , Dau James R.
Published: June 2013

We compared growth curves for ramus length and diastema length from two autumn collections of mandibles of male Western Arctic Herd caribou in Alaska. We were primarily interested in determining if growth curves of caribou mandibles differed between caribou born during 1959-1967, after the herd had been high for several years and was probably declining in size, and those born during 1976-1988, when the herd was increasing in size. To compare these growth curves, we used a nonlinear model and used maximum likelihood estimates and likelihood ratio tests. We found that growth rates were similar between periods, but intercepts and variances of growth curves differed. From this we infer that calves were smaller in autumn during the 1960s and that significant compensatory growth did not occur later in life.
Caribou reactions to provocation by snowmachines in Newfoundland
Authors: Mahoney S.P. , Mawhinney K. , McCarthy C. , Anions Doug , Taylor S.
Published: June 2013

Caribou in Gros Morne National Park reacted to provocation by snowmachine with significant differences in their response between years. Upon exposure to snowmachines, caribou were displaced 60 to 237 m from their initial locations. Groups with calves allowed the snowmachines to approach more closely before responding (5 to 600 m) than adult-only groups (30 to 1300 m), and their overall flight distances were less. Time spent in locomotion and overall reaction time were greater for animals engaged in the most sedentary activities (eg. standing; mean = 239 s and mean = 262 s, and lying; mean = 166 s and mean = 273 s) than for animals already engaged in more dynamic activities such as walking (mean = 118 s and mean = 133 s), running (mean = 74 s and mean = 63 s) and feeding (mean = 118 s and mean = 133 s). Annual differences in the response of adult-only groups were not due to differences in the sex ratio of these groups, but may be related to annual variation in winter weather conditions.
Biochemical adaptation of camelids during periods where feed is withheld
Authors: Wensvoort J. , Kyle D.J. , Ørskov E.R. , Bourke D.A.
Published: June 2013

Biochemical changes during fasting or the withholding of feed for 5 day were studied in serum of camelids (dromedary camel, llama) and ruminants (sheep, steers). Camels maintained low levels of 13-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and high levels of glucose but showed some increased levels of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and urea when fasting. Sheep and steers showed a rise in serum BHB and much higher increases of NEFA than camels and llamas. Sheep showed decreased serum glucose. The llama showed some increase in BHB but NEFA was lower than the other three species. The results indicate that camelids have a unique ability to control lipolytic and gluconeogenic activity to prevent or postpone the state of ketosis. Understanding and manipulation of these metabolic mechanisms in cattle and sheep could have great benefit to the livestock industry.