Seasonal Movements and Sexual Segregation of Caribou Determined by Aerial Survey

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Seasonal movements of caribou (R. t. granti) were monitored by a new aerial survey technique. Six surveys were conducted between March and Nov. 1975 over a specified route on Alaska''s [USA] central arctic slope. A geographic center of caribou occupancy was determined for each survey by calculating the latitudinal and longitudinal means of caribou distribution. A gradual movement to the north beginning in March and continuing into Aug. was demonstrated, thereafter progressing southward through Nov. Groups that included calves remained at higher latitudes (P < 0.05) than those not including calves, but movement patterns were similar for all groups. Caribou within this area constitute a distinct subpopulation, designated as the Central Arctic herd. Interpretation of survey results and the requirements and limitations of the technique are discussed.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: