Author: Shannon A. Stotyn
Date: Spring 2008
Source: Master’s thesis, University of Alberta, Edmonton
Link to complete thesis:
www.cmiae.org/compendium/reference180.pdf
The Southern Mountain population of
mountain caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) is threatened in
Canada, with predation the proximate cause of these declines. To reduce
predation risk, caribou isolate themselves from predators and other prey
species. I examined the spatial partitioning of mountain caribou, moose
(Alces alces), and wolves (Canis lupus), and mortality
sources of caribou in the north Columbia Mountains, British Columbia
(2003 – 2006). Spatial separation between caribou and wolves was highest
in late winter and lowest in spring and calving season. Engelmann
spruce/subalpine fir forests, alpine areas, and old forests (> 140 yrs)
were important variables that separated these species. The main predator
of adult caribou was bears, with wolf predation increasing in importance
after 2000. Wolf diet was comprised of moose (91 – 99%) with small
relative proportions of caribou, deer, and beaver. This information will
provide critical information for effective wildlife management and
planning caribou recovery strategies.
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