bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of early castration on carcass composition, yield and quality characteristics of meat from young reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) bulls and steers
Authors: Wiklund Eva , Finstad Greg , Worker Suzanne , Bechtel Peter J.
Published: February 2013

Thirty male reindeer; n=16 bulls (control treatment) and n=14 steers (castrated males) were used to evaluate the effects of early castration on carcass yield and meat quality attributes. The reindeer were castrated at 2 and 13 months of age, and then slaughtered at 2 and 3 years of age. Live weights and carcass weights were significantly highest in the 3 year old bulls and steers. Dressing percentage did not differ between the 2 and 3 year old reindeer steers castrated at 2 months; however these values were higher than for 2 year old steers castrated at 13 months. Meat ultimate pH values (measured in the striploin; LD) were significantly highest in 2 year old steers castrated at 13 months and their corresponding control group of 2 year old bulls, indicating low muscle glycogen stores at slaughter. Castration had an effect on fat content with 3 year old steers having a higher fat content than bulls. No significant differences were found in any sensory attribute when the trained panel compared the meat from 2 year old reindeer bulls and steers. Abstract in Swedish / Sammanfattning:Effekter av tidig kastrering på slaktkroppssammansättning, styckningsutbyte och köttkvalitet hos unga renarTrettio hanrenar; n=16 tjurar (kontrolldjur) och n=14 kastrater (härkar) ingick i denna studie för att utvärdera effekterna av tidig kastrering på slaktkroppssammansättning och köttkvalitetsparametrar. Renarna kastrerades vid 2 respektive 13 månaders ålder och slaktades sedan när de var antingen 2 eller 3 år gamla. Levandevikt och slaktkroppsvikt var högst för 3 år gamla tjurar och härkar. Slaktutbytet skiljde sig inte mellan 2 och 3 år gamla härkar som kastrerats vid 2 månaders ålder, men deras slaktutbyte var högre än för de 2-åriga härkarna som kastrerats vid 13 månaders ålder. Köttets pH-värde (mätt i ytterfilén) var signifikant högst hos de 2-åriga härkarna som kastrerats vid 13 månaders ålder och deras tillhörande kontrollgrupp av 2-åriga tjurar, vilket tydde på låga nivåer av muskelglykogen vid slakt. Kastrering hade en signifikant effekt på fettinnehållet i slaktkropparna hos de 3-åriga renarna, med de högsta fetthalterna hos härkarna. Inga skillnader i ätkvalitet rapporterades när kött från 2-åriga rentjurar och härkar jämfördes.
Preservation in 70% ethanol solution does not affect δ13C and δ15N values of reindeer blood samples – relevance for stable isotope studies of diet
Authors: Halley Duncan J. , Minagawa Masao , Nieminen Mauri , Gaare Eldar
Published: February 2013

We compared duplicate samples of whole blood samples from 18 reindeer that were preserved either by immediate freezing or by immersion in 70 % ethanol. All samples were dried at 60 °C, powdered, treated with 1:1 chloroform: methanol, and dried again before isotope analysis. There were no differences in the values of δ13C and δ15N between the methods of preservation. Isotopic differences were absolutely small (δ13C = 0.1±0.10/00; δ15N=0.2±0.20/00), random in direction, and within the limits of analytical precision for the mass spectrometer. Preservation in ethanol thus appears to be an effective and efficient method for preserving blood samples for stable isotope analysis under field conditions. Abstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag:Konservering av blodprøver fra rein i 70% etanolløsning påvirker ikke verdiene av δ13C and δ15N–verdiene og er en fullgod metode for analyse av stabile isotoperVi sammenlignet to og to prøver av blodprøver fra 18 reinsdyr. Prøvene var enten konservert ved umiddelbar frysing eller ved bruk av 70% etanol. Alle prøver ble tørket ved 60 °C, pulverisert og behandlet med kloroform:metanol i forholdet 1:1. Til slutt ble de tørket på nytt før gjennomføring av isotopanalysen. Vi fant ingen forskjell i verdiene av δ13C and δ15N mellom de to konserveringsmetodene. I absolutte verdier var isotopforskjellene små (δ13C = 0.1±0.1 0/00; δ15N=0.2±0.2 0/00). Forskjellene var tilfeldige og innenfor grensene for massespektrometerets presisjon. Bruk av etanol framstår som en effektiv og fullgod metode til konservering av blodprøver for analyse av stabile isotoper under feltforhold.
Ancient wild reindeer pitfall trapping systems as indicators for former migration patterns and habitat use in the Dovre region, southern Norway
Authors: Jordhøy Per
Published: February 2013

The distribution of ancient reindeer pitfall trap systems suggests an extensive regional migration of reindeer between seasonal pastures in parts of southern Norway. The migration routes were funnelled by natural barriers across a high, rolling mountain plateau. In the Dovre area, two pitfall trapping systems, totalling at least 1547 individual pitfalls, were identified and measured using a standard procedure and GPS to record location. Migrating reindeer typically cross over valleys between areas of higher ground and reindeer pitfall trap lines are therefore aligned along the valley, individually placed so that their long axis is perpendicular to the direction of the valleys. Pitfall trap systems for moose are also evident in the landscape. In contrast to reindeer, migrating moose mainly follow the line of the valley. Pitfall rows built for moose trapping are therefore placed mainly across the main direction of the valleys, and the individual pitfalls are also larger than those intended for reindeer. Migration and lichen utilization are important factors in reindeer adaption to limited food resources and existence in marginal mountain habitats. The trap systems and their ecological context support the hypothesis of ancient large-scale reindeer migration over the west-east Dovre axis between summer pastures and winter grazing land. This migration has ceased entirely because of increasing traffic on the north-south railway and highway and probably also because of reduced reindeer populations. Abstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag:Gamle fangstgropsystemer for rein som indikatorer for tidligere trekkmønster og habitatbruk i Dovreregionen, Sør-NorgeUtbredelse av fangstgropsystemer for rein tyder på at det har vært et regionalt trekkmønster mellom ulike sesongbeiter innen deler av Sør-Norge. Trekket har vært styrt av naturlige barrierer over et variert, bølgende fjellandskap. I dovreområdet er to store fangstgropsystemer på totalt minst 1547 fangstgroper registrert og kartfestet etter en standard prosedyre. Migrerende rein har krysset over dalsenkningene mellom høyere fjellpartier. Fangstgroprekkene har derfor vært anlagt langs dalbunnen og retningen på selve gropene går overveiende på tvers av dalretningen. Fangstgroper for elg er også vanlig i regionen, men i motsetning til fangstgropene for rein går retningen på disse oftest parallelt med dalretningen. De er også gjennomgående større enn gropene som har vært beregnet på reinfangst. Vandring og utnyttelse av lav som vinterbeite er viktig faktorer i reinens tilpasning til et skrint næringsgrunnlag og marginele habitater i fjellet. Fangstsystemene og økologiske holdepunkter/faktorer støtter hypotesen om et tidligere trekk øst/vest over dovreaksen, mellom sommerbeiter i vest og vinterbeiter i øst. Trekket her har nå opphørt helt på grunn av trafikkårene og tilhørende ferdsels- og trafikkøkning over Dovre. En redusert villreinbestand har også trolig medvirket til dette.
Methods for estimating the density of Elaphostrongylus rangiferi Mitskevich (Nematoda, Metastrongyloidea) larvae in faeces from reindeer, Rangifer tarandus L.
Authors: Halvorsen Odd , Wissler K.
Published: February 2013

A method for estimating the density of Elaphostrongylus rangiferi larvae in reindeer faeces that have been deep frozen is described. The method involves the use of an inverted microscope with plankton counting chambers. Statistical data on the efficiency and sensitivity of the method are given. With fresh faeces, the results obtained with the method were not significantly different from those obtained with the Baermann technique. With faeces that had been stored in deep freeze, the method detected on average 30 per cent more larvae than the Baermann technique.

Metoder for å estimere tettheten av hjernemarklarver i avføring fra reinsdyr.

Abstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag: En metode for å estimere tettheten av hjernemarklarver i avføring som har vært dypfryst blir beskrevet. Anvendelse av et invertert mikroskop med plankton tellekammer inngår i metoden. Det blir gitt statistiske data for metodens effektivitet og følsomhet. Ved undersøkelse av fersk avføring skilte ikke de resultatene metoden ga seg fra de som ble oppnådd med Baermanns metode. Ved undersøkelse av avføring som hadde vært lagret dypfrosset ga metoden i gjennomsnitt 30 prosent flere larver enn Baermanns metode.
Translocation of reindeer from South Georgia to the Falkland Islands
Authors: Bell Cameron M. , Dieterich Robert A.
Published: February 2013

This report describes the first translocation of reindeer Rangifer tarandus from South Georgia to the Falkland Islands, in the South Atlantic Ocean. Reindeer were introduced from Norway to the subantarctic island of South Georgia on three occasions in the early 1900s by Norwegian whalers, and today they exist as two discrete herds, numbering approximately 2600 individuals in total. Because of concerns over the impact on native vegetation, the long-term eradication of reindeer from South Georgia has recently been proposed. A translocation of reindeer to the Falkland Islands was undertaken in 2001 by the Falkland Island Government with two objectives: (1) to preserve the genetic resources of at least one of the South Georgia herds; and (2) to facilitate the diversification of the agricultural sector of the Falkland Islands by establishing a commercial reindeer herd. Techniques developed and used in North America for the successful relocation of large numbers of calves were adopted for the translocation. A total of 59 calves (26 females and 33 males) were successfully translocated from South Georgia to the Falklands Islands in 2001, and subsequently produced their first offspring in 2003. Good husbandry practices and an understanding of biology and behaviour are essential for the successful translocation of reindeer.Flytting av rein fra Sør-Georgia til FalklandsøyeneAbstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag: Artikkelen beskriver den første overføring av rein Rangifer tarandus fra Sør-Georgia til Falklandsøyene i søratlanteren. Tamrein fra Norge ble flyttet til den subarktiske øya Sør-Georgia ved tre anledninger i perioden 1911 til 1925 i forbindelse med den norske hvalfangsten der. I dag består bestanden av rundt regnet 2600 dyr fordelt på to geografisk atskilte flokker. Av hensyn til den naturlige vegetasjonen på øya er det forslag om å på sikt utrydde reinbestanden på øya. Regjeringen på Falklandsøyene foretok en første overføring av rein fra Sør-Georgia i 2001 ut fra en målsetting om å 1) bevare genetiske ressurser fra minst en av de to reinflokkene, og 2) øke mulighetene innenfor landbrukssektoren på Falklandsøyene ved å etablere en kommersiell reinflokk der. Overføringen ble utført med metoder som hadde vist seg formålstjenlige ved flytting og nylokalisering av kalver i Nord-Amerika. Totalt ble 59 kalver overført i 2001 derav 26 hunndyr. De overførte reinene produserte kalver i 2003. God driftspraksis og biologisk og atferdsmessig forståelse var viktig for en vellykket overføring.
Reindeer coat colour variants in Finland
Authors: Lauvergne Jean J. , Nieminen Mauri
Published: February 2013

A research program based on reindeer coat colour had its first field survey in Finland after the calving season of May 2009. This short notice advances the main observations of the survey where, besides the wild allele, a new mutant could be identified, at least at three colour loci: Agouti (A), White Spotting (S) and White (W).Poron turkin värityypit SuomessaAbstract in Finnish / Lyhennelmä: Tutkimusprojekti poron turkin väreistä alkoi kenttätutkimuksilla Suomessa vasonnan jälkeen toukokuussa 2009. Tämä lyhyt tiedonanto osoittaa, että porolla on villialleelin lisäksi myös uusi mutanttialleeli vähintään kolmessa värilokuksessa: Agouti (A), Täplikäs (S) ja Valkoinen (W).Fargevarianter av reinpels i FinlandAbstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag: Et forskningsprosjekt begynte i felt etter kalving i 2009. Resultatene så langt viser at tamreinen har få fargemutanter sammenliknet med forholdet hos andre domestiserte arter
Microbiological shelf life of fresh, chilled reindeer meat (M. longissimus dorsi)
Authors: Wiklund Eva
Published: February 2013

In this pilot study loin muscles (M. longissimus dorsi) from six reindeer calves (aged 4 months) were used to determine shelf life of fresh, chilled reindeer meat stored at +4 °C, measured as microbiological quality (aerobic microorganisms and Escherichia coli). The loins were collected at boning 3 days post slaughter and divided in five pieces that were randomly assigned to five different storage times; sampling directly after packaging and after chilled storage for 2, 3, 4 and 5 weeks at +4 °C. Samples were vacuum packaged and transported chilled to Hjortens Laboratory in Östersund, Sweden (accredited by SWEDAC according to SS-EN ISO/IEC 17025:2005 for food analysis) where the storage, microbiological sampling and analysis took place according to the protocols of Nordic Committee on Food Analysis (NMKL). The total amount of aerobic microorganisms at the first sampling directly after packaging (three days post slaughter) was 3.4 ± 0.3 log10 CFU/g. After two and three weeks of vacuum packaged chilled storage at +4°C the microbiological quality of the samples was on the border-line to poor (6.8 ± 0.3 log10 CFU/g). At four and five weeks of chilled storage the levels of aerobic microorganisms were significantly highest (P≤0.05) and the limit for acceptable quality of 7 log10 CFU/g aerobic bacteria had been passed (7.3 ± 0.3 log10 CFU/g and 7.8 ± 0.3 log10 CFU/g, respectively). Very few of the reindeer meat samples were contaminated with Escherichia coli bacteria. The results from the present pilot study suggest that storage time for vacuum packaged fresh, chilled reindeer meat should not exceed 3 weeks at a temperature of +4 °C.
Selection decisions among reindeer herders in Finland
Authors: Muuttoranta Kirsi , Mäki-Tanila Asko
Published: February 2013

Selection of breeding animals is a tool to improve the revenues in animal production. Information about selection practices and criteria are essential in assessing the possibilities for systematic selection schemes. Attitudes of reindeer herders towards use of selection in improving production were investigated by means of interviews. We interviewed the managers of reindeer herding cooperatives concerning their selection decisions. Fortyfive out of 56 managers answered to the semi-structured questionnaire. Among herding operations, selection of breeding animals was regarded by managers as critical for calf’s autumn weight and survival. The main selection criteria were calf’s health, vigour, body size and muscularity, dam or dam line, and maternal care. Hair quality and hair length were important as well, while such often quoted traits as antler characteristics, e.g. early shedding of antler velvet and thick antler bases, were unimportant. The results show that reindeer herders i) acknowledge the importance and effects of selective breeding, and ii) have empirical knowledge to list the most important selection criteria.
Land management strategies for the long-term persistence of boreal woodland caribou in central Saskatchewan
Authors: Arsenault A. Alan , Manseau Micheline
Published: February 2013

We investigated landscape changes and their potential effects on woodland caribou-boreal ecotype (Rangifer tarandus caribou) within a portion of the Smoothstone-Wapaweka Woodland Caribou Management Unit (SW-WCMU). The SW-WCMU is one of eight areas delineated by the Province of Saskatchewan for potential recovery planning efforts for boreal caribou, and is one of four management units located on the Boreal Plain Ecozone. The Prince Albert Greater Ecosystem (PAGE) study area was selected within the SW-WCMU for intensive study from 2004 - 2008. Studies focused on quantifying a suite of landscape and population parameters. This paper presents a summary of study results to date and recommends land management strategies intended to contribute to the long-term viability of boreal caribou in the central boreal plain ecoregion of Saskatchewan. The PAGE study area has undergone structural changes from an area that historically presented a lesser amount but well connected mature coniferous forest, to a currently larger amount of mature coniferous stands fragmented by a highly developed network of roads and trails. Movement data pointed to highly clustered use of the landscape by small groups of caribou and smaller home ranges when compared to 15 years ago. Calving sites were located within each individual home range in treed peatland and distant from hardwood/mixedwood forest stands, roads and trails access. Adult annual survival rates were low, averaging 73% over the course of the study. In order to ensure a self-sustaining population level, study results clearly point to the need for landscape restoration to reduce the level of anthropogenic disturbances in some key parts of the study area. Key strategies include retention of mature softwood forest interior proximate to local areas of caribou activity, protection of calving habitat, improving structural connectivity, planning disturbances (forest harvesting, fire salvage, resource exploration, access development) in ways to minimize the anthropogenic footprint, and recovery action planning integrated with other land-use planning initiatives.
Use of island and mainland shorelines by woodland caribou during the nursery period in two northern Ontario parks
Authors: Carr Natasha L. , Rodgers Arthur R. , Kingston Steven R. , Lowman Douglas J.
Published: February 2013

Predation is considered a primary limiting factor of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) populations across North America. Caribou are especially vulnerable to predation during their first few weeks of life and have evolved space-use strategies to reduce predation risk through habitat selection during the critical calving and nursery period. We assessed landscape-scale physical characteristics and landcover types associated with caribou nursery sites in Wabakimi and Woodland Caribou Provincial Parks in northern Ontario to better understand nursery site selection in relatively undisturbed landscapes. Although free from industrial activity, these protected areas may subject caribou to human recreational disturbance, so our secondary objective was to evaluate female caribou nursery site selection relative to human recreational activities. We determined that parturient caribou selected landscape characteristics at multiple spatial scales that may reduce predation risk during the calving and nursery period. Generally, female caribou in both parks selected larger lakes with larger than average sized islands configured within shorter than average distances to other islands or landforms that might facilitate escape from predators. The majority of caribou nursery areas in both parks occurred on islands rather than the mainland shoreline of lakes that were surveyed. The nearest landform for escape from these nursery sites on islands was typically another island, and most often 2-3 islands, suggesting parturient caribou may choose islands clustered together as part of their escape strategy. In Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, caribou nursery sites occurred more often in coniferous landcover than expected from availability, while in Wabakimi Provincial Park caribou used sparse, mixed and coniferous forests for nursery activity. Caribou cow-calf pairs typically used areas for nursery activity that were 9.1 km (± 1.0 km, range 2.3-20.6 km) in Wabakimi Provincial Park and 10.2 km (± 0.7 km, range 0.7-32.6 km) in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park from any human recreational disturbance. These landscape-scale physical characteristics and landcover types associated with caribou nursery sites may be used to predict locations of potential caribou nursery areas both outside and within protected areas for the provision of adequate protection and to ensure the persistence of this valued species.
Movements of boreal caribou in the James Bay lowlands
Authors: Hazell Megan E. , Taylor Mark E.
Published: February 2013

Little is known about the movements and home range of boreal woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in the James Bay lowlands, northern Ontario. Our preliminary study involves the use of GPS collars with Argos satellite system uplink to monitor movements of caribou and 10 animals were collared in December 2004. Animals appeared to have reduced rates of daily movement starting approximately in mid to late December and stretching until late February. Similarly, most animals appeared to have very reduced rates of movement from the beginning of May to the end of June indicating that this is their calving period (includes both parturition as well as the period immediately after parturition). Thus the over-wintering range was assumed to be where the animals were from mid-December to late February and the calving range was defined as the area they were in from the beginning of May to the end of June. Individual home-ranges were typically large, the mean 90% kernel home range for 2004 - 2007 was 41 579 km2. Over wintering areas and calving areas were small when compared to annual home-range size and reflect the reduced rates of movement during these time periods. Female caribou show site fidelity to calving grounds, using the same core areas year after year. However, the same level of site fidelity was not observed in over-wintering areas. The caribou in the James Bay lowlands display behaviours that are characteristic of both the forest-tundra and forest-forest ecotypes which may warrant the reconsideration of the validity of proposed ecotypes with respect to protection under species-at-risk legislation.
Female site fidelity of the Mealy Mountain caribou herd (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in Labrador
Authors: Popp Jesse N. , Schaefer James A. , Mallory Frank F.
Published: February 2013

The Mealy Mountain caribou population of southeastern Labrador is listed as threatened. Site fidelity - the philopatric tendency of an animal to remain in or return to the same site - has often been suspected in sedentary caribou like the Mealy Mountain, but rarely has been examined. Philopatric behaviours are important because fidelity sites may then receive priority protection from human disturbance. To describe and document site fidelity for the Mealy Mountain herd, satellite telemetry data from 12 collared adult females during three years was examined. The mean distance between locations in consecutive years of tracking the individual caribou was calculated and an annual profile of site fidelity generated. This profile illustrated that the lowest inter-year distances occurred during calving, when caribou returned to within 39 km (2005-06) and 11.5 km (2006-07) of the previous year's location, and during post-calving, when the mean distance was 7.7 km (2005-06). Spring snow depths were substantially greater in 2007 and appeared to weaken calving site fidelity. This spatial information may serve as a basis for detecting anthropogenic effects on woodland caribou.
Little Smoky Woodland Caribou Calf Survival Enhancement Project
Authors: Smith Kirkby G. , Pittaway Lois
Published: February 2013

The Little Smoky woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus) herd is a boreal ecotype located in west central Alberta, Canada. This herd has declined steadily over the past decade and is currently thought to number approximately 80 animals. Factors contributing to the herds' decline appear related to elevated predator-caused mortality rates resulting from industrial caused landscape change. At current rates of decline, the herd is at risk of extirpation. A calf survival enhancement project was initiated in the first half of 2006 as a means of enhancing recruitment while other longer-term approaches were implemented. A total of 10 pregnant females were captured in early March and held in captivity until all calves were at least 3 weeks old. Before release, calves were radiocollared with expandable drop-off collars. Following release, survival of mother and offspring were tracked at intervals until the fall rut. Survival of penned calves was compared to "wild-born" calves at heel of non captive radiocollared females. This approach is compared to other techniques designed to increase recruitment in caribou.
Changes in reindeer population numbers in Russia: an effect of the political context or of climate?
Authors: Klokov Konstantin B.
Published: February 2013

This paper analyses trends in domesticated reindeer numbers at the federal, regional, and local levels based on official statistics and interviews with herders in different northern districts across Russia. During the second half of the last century, the domesticated reindeer population in Russia shifted dramatically from a maximum of 2.5 million head to a minimum of 1.2. The most important trends were connected to changes in social and economic conditions linked to government directives. Post-Soviet reforms in the 1990s resulted in a nearly 50% reduction in the total number of domesticated reindeer. However in some regions, these political events had the opposite effect. The contrast was due to the abilities of herders to adapt to the new conditions. A detailed analysis of these adaptations reveals an important difference between reindeer-holding enterprises with common ownership (i.e. kolkhozes, sovkhozes, municipal enterprises, etc.) and households with family owned reindeer. The paper concludes that the effect the political context is so large as to conceal the impact of other natural factors on reindeer populations such as climate change. However, a gradual increase of reindeer populations in the north-eastern part of Russia in the 1960s can be associated with changes in atmospheric circulation patterns.
Shit happens – a glimpse into males’ mating tactics in a polygynous ungulate - the reindeer
Authors: Holand Øystein , L’Italien Léon , Weladji Robert B. , Djaković Natasa , Røed Knut , Hovland Anne Lene , Nieminen Mauri
Published: February 2013

This is about the two big "guys", Spot and Mika, and their endeavour to propagate their genes during the mating season 2007. They were 6 and 5 years old weighting 172 and 141 kg before rut, respectively. Together with 23 other males (one 5 yrs, two 4 yrs, three 3 yrs, six 2 yrs and eleven 1 yr old) they roamed within a ~15 km2 fenced area competing for access to 87 females. Indeed, the competition was intense and all males present contributed to the dynamic observed. Especially Hot, the heaviest 4 yrs old male weighing 155 kg before rut, played a prominent role - in addition to Spot and Mika, their mating tactics being highly dynamic. However there is no short cut to success - strength have to be coupled with smartness - but shit happens - as we'll see.
Dene traditional knowledge about caribou cycles in the Northwest Territories
Authors: Beaulieu Danny
Published: February 2013

This paper is about what I have learned about the caribou cycle over the past one hundred and ten years or so, talking to Denesųłıné elders in Fort Resolution, Łutselk’e, and Yellowknife. Mostly I’ve learned from my grandmother, my grandparents, and my parents.
“They’re going to come back”
Authors: Nirlungayuk Gabriel
Published: February 2013

This paper was adapted from contributions by Gabriel Nirlungayuk, the Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. delegate to the NACW Aboriginal Talking Circle.
The reintroduction of boreal caribou as a conservation strategy: A long-term assessment at the southern range limit
Authors: St-Laurent Martin-Hugues , Dussault Christian
Published: February 2013

Boreal caribou were extirpated from the Charlevoix region (Québec) in the 1920s because of hunting and poaching. In 1965, the Québec government initiated a caribou reintroduction program in Charlevoix. During the winters of 1966 and 1967, a total of 48 boreal caribou were captured, translocated by plane, and released within enclosures; only their offspring (82 individuals) were released in the wild. Between 1967 and 1980, a wolf control program was applied to support caribou population growth. The caribou population, however, remained relatively stable at 45–55 individuals during this period. During the 1980s, the population grew slowly at a rate of approximately 5% each year to reach a peak of 126 individuals in 1992. At that time, Bergerud & Mercer (1989) reported that the Charlevoix experiment was the only successful attempt at caribou reintroduction in the presence of predators (in North America). Afterwards, the population declined and since then it has been relatively stable at about 80 individuals. Here we reviewed the literature regarding the ecology and population dynamics of the Charlevoix caribou herd since its reintroduction, in an attempt to critically assess the value of reintroduction as a conservation tool for this species. Indeed, the Charlevoix caribou herd is now considered at very high risk of extinction mostly because of its small size, its isolation from other caribou populations, and low recruitment. The Charlevoix region has been heavily impacted by forestry activities since the early 1980s. Recent studies have indicated that these habitat modifications may have benefited populations of wolves and black bears—two predators of caribou—and that caribou range fidelity may have exposed caribou to higher predation risk via maladaptive habitat selection. As females are ageing, and females and calves suffer high predation pressure from wolves and bears respectively, we suggest that the future of this reintroduced herd is in question and that they are facing a high probability of extinction in the near future if further action is not taken.
A guide to developing resource selection functions from telemetry data using generalized estimating equations and generalized linear mixed models
Authors: Koper Nicola , Manseau Micheline
Published: February 2013

Resource selection functions (RSF) are often developed using satellite (ARGOS) or Global Positioning System (GPS) telemetry datasets, which provide a large amount of highly correlated data. We discuss and compare the use of generalized linear mixed-effects models (GLMM) and generalized estimating equations (GEE) for using this type of data to develop RSFs. GLMMs directly model differences among caribou, while GEEs depend on an adjustment of the standard error to compensate for correlation of data points within individuals. Empirical standard errors, rather than model-based standard errors, must be used with either GLMMs or GEEs when developing RSFs. There are several important differences between these approaches; in particular, GLMMs are best for producing parameter estimates that predict how management might influence individuals, while GEEs are best for predicting how management might influence populations. As the interpretation, value, and statistical significance of both types of parameter estimates differ, it is important that users select the appropriate analytical method. We also outline the use of k-fold cross validation to assess fit of these models. Both GLMMs and GEEs hold promise for developing RSFs as long as they are used appropriately.
Recent changes in summer distribution and numbers of migratory caribou on the southern Hudson Bay coast
Authors: Abraham Kenneth F. , Pond Bruce A. , Tully Susan M. , Trim Vicki , Hedman Daryll , Chenier Chris , Racey Gerald D.
Published: February 2013

The status of migratory woodland caribou inhabiting the coastal region in southern Hudson Bay is dynamic. The Pen Islands Herd within that region was defined in the 1990s, but opportunistic observations between 1999 and 2007 suggested that its status had significantly changed since the late 1980s and early 1990s. We undertook systematic surveys from the Hayes River, MB, to the Lakitusaki River, ON, in 2008 and 2009 to determine current distribution and minimum numbers of woodland caribou on the southern Hudson Bay coast from the Hayes River, Manitoba, to the Lakitusaki River, Ontario. We documented a significant change in summer distribution during the historical peak aggregation period (7-15 July) compared to the 1990s. In 2008 and 2009, respectively, we tallied 3529 and 3304 animals; however, fewer than 180 caribou were observed each year in the Pen Islands Herd’s former summer range where over 10 798 caribou were observed during a systematic survey in 1994. Over 80% of caribou were in the Cape Henrietta Maria area of Ontario. Calf proportions in herds varied from 8% of animals in the west to 20% in the east. Our 2008 and 2009 systematic surveys were focused on the immediate coast, but one exploratory flight inland suggested that more caribou may be inland than had been observed in the 1980s-1990s. The causes of change in the numbers and distribution in the coastal Hudson Bay Lowlands and the association of current caribou with the formerly large Pen Islands Herd may be difficult to determine because of gaps in monitoring, but satellite telemetry, genetic sampling, remote sensing, habitat analysis, and aboriginal knowledge are all being used to pursue answers.
On the quality of Svalbard reindeer pasture in the summer and autumn
Authors: Staaland Hans
Published: February 2013

Late summer and autumn reindeer pasture plants from Adventdalen, Svalbard were analyzed for contents of fatty acids, energy content, protein, fibre, ether extract as well as content of macro minerals. Food intake of grazing reindeer in Adventdalen was estimated from fecal production. Large intake of high quality food seems to account for the growth and fattening of Svalbard reindeer during summer.

Om kvaliteten på reinbeite av reinbeite på Svalbard sommer og høst.

Abstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag: Innholdet av fettsyrer, energi, protein, fiber, eterekstrakt og makromineraler ble analysert i reinbeiteplanter fra Adventdalen på Svalbard. Plantene ble samlet på ettersommeren. Forinntaket hos beitende rein i Adventdalen ble estimert ut fra fecesproduksjonen. Et stort inntak av for med høy kvalitet synes å kunne forklare vekst og fettlagring hos Svalbard-reinen om sommeren.

Huippuvuorten poronlaidunten laadusta kesalla ja syksylla.

Abstract in Finnish / Yhteenveto: Rasvahappojen, energian, fiiberin, eetteriuutteen ja makromineraalien sisaltoa analysoitiin poronlaidunkasveissa Huippuvuorten Adventtilaaksosta. Kasvit kerattiin loppukesalla. Adventtilaaksossa laiduntavien porojen rehun kulunki arvioitiin lannan maarasta. Korkealaatuisen rehun suuri kulutus nayttaa vovan selittaa Huippuvuorten porojen kasvun ja rasvakerrostuman kesalla.
Program
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

NOR's chairman Ole K. Sara opened the conference, followed by a presentation of NOR by the secretary general Sven Skjenneberg. After he and Mauri Nieminen had presented news about reindeer research in the Nordic countries, the lectures and discussions in the conference sessions focused on 1) Pasture and pasture plants; 2) Stress; 3) Diseases; 4) Physiology; 5) Feeding and feeding physiology; 6) Slaughter strategies and herd structure. There was finally an extra session about mating period in Swedish reindeer.  
Spot-satelitten og vegetasjonskartlegging
Authors: Tømmervik Hans
Published: February 2013

Stoffet er delvis hentet fra et ikke-ferdig manuskript til min hovedoppgave som vil bli ferdig i løpet av januar 1985, og fra et opphold ved C.N.E.S. Toulouse, Frankrike høsten 1983.
Renbeteslavarnas mineralinnehåll - en litteraturöversikt
Authors: Åhman Birgitta
Published: February 2013

Sammanstallningen bygger på ett tjugotal publikationer, de flesta skandinaviska. Några canadensiska och ryska arbeten har tagits med. I sammanstallningen presenteras olika analysdata och dessutom diskuteras metoder for provtagning och provbearbetning samt redovisningen av analysdata. Ur befintlig litteratur har jag valt for renen betydelsefulla lavarter och tittat på de mineralämnen som är viktiga ur nutritionssynspunkt.
Rapport från resultat av preliminära sammanställningar av pH-mätning och smakbedömning av renkött under slaktsäsongen 1983-84
Authors: Rydberg Axel
Published: February 2013

Det har framgått, att kött med dålig lukt och smak aven kan ha ett normalt pH. Samma sak aven det omvanda forhållandet. Kroppar med dåliga lukt- och smakpoäng har uttagits på grund av kannbar lukt vid uppslaktningen.
Parasitbekämpning och renarnas kondition
Authors: Nieminen M. , Nikander S. , Tanhuanpää E.
Published: February 2013

Av de parasitmedel som man anvandt hade Ivomec den basta effekten på hudkorm (Oedemagena tarandi). Hos renar som behandlats med denna medicin kunde man observera varken larvar av hudkorm eller svalgkorm (Cephenemyia trompe).
Body composition and population regulation of Svalbard reindeer
Authors: Reimers Eigil
Published: February 2013

After severe winters, body weight, fat, and lean tissue of the high Arctic Svalbard reindeer may be reduced by 50, 90-97 and 30-40% respectively. Absence of harassment from predators, insects and man allows surviving animals to rapidly restore body reserves during the summer. That accumulation of large pre-winter body reserves is essential, as the reindeer's survival and population control is dependant upon use of winter forage which is resistant to grazing but poor in quality.

Kroppssammensetning og bestandsregulering hos svalbardrein.

Abstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag: Etter harde vintre kan kroppsvekt, fett og magert vev bli redusert med henholdsvis 50, 90 - 97% henholdsvis. Fravær av forstyrrelser av rovdyr, insekter og mennesker tillater overlevende dyr å fornye sine kroppsreserver raskt gjennom sommeren. Denne akkumulering av store kroppsreserver før vinteren er livsviktig, da reinens overlevelse og bestandskontroll er avhengig av et vinterfor som er motstandsdyktig mot beiting, men er av dårlig kvalitet.

Huippuvuorten porojen ruumiinkokoonpano ja eläinkannan säätö.

Abstract in Finnish /Yhteenveto: Ankarien talvien jälkeen voi ruumiinpaino, rasva ja laiha kudos vähetä 50, 90-97 ja 30-40 % jokainen erikseen. Petoeläinten, hyönteisten ja ihmisten häiriöiden poisjäädessä on eloonjääneillä eläimillä mahdollisuus uusia nopeasti ruumiin vara-aineet kesän kuluessa. Tamä suurien ruumiin vara-aineiden kasaantuma ennen talvea on elintärkeä, koska porojen eloonjääminen ja eläinkannan valvonta on riippuvainen talvilaitumesta, joka sietää laiduntamisen, vaikka se on huonoa laatua.
Reinens gevir - vekst og betydning. En oversikt
Authors: Nieminen Mauri
Published: February 2013

Reindeer antlers - growth and importance.

Review article in Norwegian.
Terje Skogland; Life history charcteristics of wild reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L.) in relation to their food resources; ecological effects and behavioral adaptations
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

The thesis Life history characteristics of wild reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L.) is approved for the Phil.dr's degree at the University of Oslo. The dissertation took place in Oslo November 9. 1985.
Seasonal activity of the Denali caribou herd, Alaska
Authors: Boertje Rodney D.
Published: February 2013

Activity of female and young caribou in the Denali herd was studied from June 1978 through April 1980 to help assess the food availability/nutritional status of this reduced population. No nutritional stress was evident as inferred by the greater activity of Denali caribou in late winter compared with starving caribou in West Greenland and by the low proportion of time spent grazing in spring compared with reindeer on overgrazed ranges in Norway. Also, low proportions of time were spent running from insects due to relatively few insects and a high availability of insect-relief sites. A low proportion of time was spent cratering due to windswept conditions. Activity budgets calculated from complete active-rest cycles and accompanied by the duration of active and rest periods may be useful indicators of relative food availability/nutritional status, particularly in late winter/early spring. Duration of active periods is presumably most strongly related to rumen fill, and, thus, food availability. Duration of rest periods was not significantly different among seasons (P<0.05), except when insects, rutting bulls, and, presumably, mushroom-searching altered active-rest cycles.

Sesongmessige svingninger av aktiviteten i Denali karibu-flokk, Alaska.

Abstract in Norwegian / Sammendrag: Aktiviteten hos simler og ungdyr i Denali karibouflokk ble studert fra juni 1978 til utgangen av april 1980 som hjelpemiddel for å bestemme næringstilbud/ernæringsstatus i denne reduserte karibustamme. Ingen ernæringsmessig stress var åpenbar, noe som kan utledes av den større aktivitet hos Denali karibu på senvinteren sammenlignet med sultende karibu i Vest-Grønland samt den lave andel av beiting sammenlignet med rein på overbelastede beiter i Norge. Videre ble en lav andel av tiden brukt til å rømme fra insekter, fordi insektplagen var relativt liten og at det var lett adgang til områder der dyrene kunne befri seg fra insektene. Graving krevde også liten andel av tid takket være vindblåste snøforhold. Aktivitetsbudsjetter beregnet ut fra totale aktivitets-/hvilesykluser kan være nyttige indikatorer på relativ næringstilbud/ernæringsstatus, særlig på senvinter og tidlig vår. Varigheten av aktive perioder er sannsynligvis mest knyttet til vomfylde og, derfor, til næringstilbud eller næringstilgjengelighet. Varigheten av hvileperioder var ikke signifikant forskjellig mellom sesonger (P<0.05), unntatt når insekter, brunstige bukker og, sannsynligvis også, soppsøking forandret aktivitet-/hvilesykluser.
Tjernobylolyckan - Åtgärdsnivåer från folkhälsosynpunkt
Authors: Snihs Jan-Olof
Published: February 2013

Tjernobylolyckan - Åtgärdsnivåer från folkhälsosynpunkt.
Tiltak i Norge for kontroll av næringsmidler og for begrensning av skadevirkninger etter Tsjernobyl
Authors: Ørbeck-Sørheim Atle
Published: February 2013

Det norske Helsedirektoratet hadde et koordineringsansvar for de tiltak som ble iverksatt for kontroll av næringsmidler og for begrensning av skadevirkninger etter Tsjernobyl-ulykken. Etter råd fra hele vår ekspertise, gikk vi ut med informasjon om at ulykken ikke representerte noen akutt helsefare. Dette gjorde man for å avdempe eventuell engstelse i befolkningen. På den annen side iverksatte vi endel tiltak ut fra det råd at man måtte søke å redusere strålebelastningen totalt sett. For å forklare denne, tilsynelatende, motsetning oppsto det et øyeblikkelig informasjonsbehov som vi hverken hadde kapasitet til eller var forberedt på å møte.
Diskusjon - Discussion
Authors: Åhman and others Gustaf
Published: February 2013

Flera av inledningsforedragshållarna har talat om en informationskris. Jag vil håvda att det var en kunskapsbrist som ledde till en kunskapskris som i sin tur blev till en informationskris.
Radiocesium concentrations in the lichen-reindeer/caribou food chain: Before and after Chernobyl
Authors: White Robert G. , Holleman Dan F. , Allaye-Chan Ann C.
Published: February 2013

This paper reviews historical concentrations of radiocesium (Cs-137) in the reindeer/caribou food chain in Alaska. These data, along with available kinetic models which describe the movement of radiocesium through the food chain, are used to predict consequences of radioactive fallout from the Chernobyl accident which occurred in late April 1986. During the present discussion, efforts are made to directly relate the Alaskan data to the Scandinavian situation as it exists following the Chernobyl accident.
Radiobiologiska effekter på djur/renar av nuklidutsläpp från reaktorhavarier
Authors: Jones Bernt
Published: February 2013

Det som for oss biologer år intressant, det år dom medeltunga kårnorna som bildas. Man har nåstan tvåhundra slags atomer, nuklider som bildas, och de år nåstan alla radioaktiva. Det år den radioaktiviteten som påverkar djur och månniskor på olika sått. Ser man på vilka åmnen som finns i det hår området av periodiska systemet (masstal 80-150), så år det bara ett som normalt ingår i omsåttningen hos djur och det år jod. Men man har också cesium som liknar kalium och strontium som liknar kalcium och dårfor går in i djurens metabolism. De tre åmnena kommer då att få livsmedelshygienisk betydelse når de fororenar olika livsmedel. Jag skal emellertid uppehålla mig mera med de hår åmnena som strålkållor och alltså som potentiella skadliga åmnen for djuren.
Upptag och utsöndring av cesium-137 hos renar utfodrade med lav efter det radioaktiva nedfallet från Tjernobyl
Authors: Åhman Birgitta
Published: February 2013

Caesium in reindeer
Behandling av reinkalver med ivermectin første levehøst. Effekt på levendevekter andre levehøst
Authors: Heggstad Eirik , Bø Esben , Lenvik Dag
Published: February 2013

Reinen lever i et svært sårbart miljø, hvor små inngrep kan gi uante følger på lengre sikt. Innføring av medikamentbruk i en næring som tradisjonelt har klart seg uten medfører derfor et betydelig ansvar. For eksempel vil bruk av ivermectin på flokker fra dårlige, overbelastede beiter sannsynligvis gi bra effekt, men samtidig kan det bidra til å kamuflere problemer som kunne løses på annen måte, f.eks. ved omlegging av flokkstruktur og slakteuttak. Imidlertid vil bruk av ivermectin i reinflokker som lever under normalt gode betingelser kunne gi et resultat i form av økt kjøttavkastning som gjør at et evt. rutinemessig behandlingsopplegg vil kunne være økonomisk fordelaktig.
Deltakere - List of participants
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

More than eighty participants gathered for the meeting; nearly half of them from Norway.
Ingrid Hemmer; Entwicklung und Strucktur der Rentierwirtschaft in Finnmark und Troms (Nordnorwegen)
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

The thesis was approved for the Phil. dr. 's degree at the University of Bamberg, West-Germany. The dissertation took place in Bamberg February 29, 1984. A shortened version is published as Vol No. I of «Bamberger Wirtschafts-geographishe Arbeiten» (with English summary).

Kort om avhandlingen: Det var avhandlingens formål å analysere reindrifta i Finnmark og Troms ut fra økonomisk geografiske synspunkter. I den sammenheng skulle følgende punkter undersøkes: — analyse av endringer i reindrifta, særlig siden 1945, omfattende utgangssituasjonen, utløsende faktorer og de nye strukturer som har oppstått, — detaljert analyse av dagens økonomiske og sosiale strukturer med deres regionale differensiering, der også samspillet av medvirkende faktorer skal påvises, — forsøk på å vurdere reindriftas utvikling i framtida. Arbeidet er ment som et bidrag til bedre kunnskaper om reindrifta og de subpolare utkantområder.
Woodland caribou and forestry in Northern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Darby W. R. , Duquette L. S.
Published: February 2013

Expansion of logging in remote Ontario boreal forest requires mitigation of effects on woodland caribou. Three examples of caribou-forestry interaction are reviewed. In two, caribou were apparently displaced from peripheral portions of their winter range by logging. In the third, caribou disappeared when exposed to: logging in a central third of their winter range; increased deer density, and; a probable increase in predation. In all cases there is no evidence of human harvest. The literature plus experience in Ontario suggest the following mitigative techniques: protection of winter concentration areas, significant calving areas and traditional migration routes from logging; directing timber harvest to forest stands of least value to caribou; restricting disturbance to one large clearcut in a peripheral portion of range rather than dispersing it over a large portion as several small clearcuts; modified site preparation and regeneration, and; restricted road access. Research is required on the effect of forestry on caribou with and without mitigation, and on causes for effects observed.