Caribou

Hello there! I’m Claudia Haas, a biologist with Wilfrid Laurier University. I’m in the Northwest Territories, home to some of the last intact boreal forest in the world! These forests are important habitat for healthy wildlife populations, including at-risk species. Despite all of this, there isn’t really a lot of information available about these ecosystems!

One of the most important animals here are caribou. In fact, a lot of scientists refer to caribou as an “umbrella species”, because protecting the large intact forests they depend on also protects a lot of other species. On top of that, boreal caribou play an important role in the culture and history of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Unfortunately, boreal caribou are threatened with extinction, due to threats like habitat fragmentation and other disturbances.

But before we get into that, let’s get to know the caribou! Caribou have large hooves, huge antlers, and thick, brown fur. They belong to the deer family — you might also know them as reindeer! These amazing animals live in the arctic tundra and boreal forest in Canada, Alaska, and the western United States, but certain types are also found in Norway, Sweden, and Russia. Their hooves are like big wide shovels that help them dig through the snow for food, and walk on top of the snow instead of sinking in. In the summertime, their footpads grow spongy and springy so they can travel over different types of ground. Plus, caribou hooves can act as paddles to help them swim! Another cool fact? They’re the only member of the deer family where both males and females grow antlers.

I’m using cameras and recording equipment to study how changes in the forest affect wildlife food webs. This will help to give us the full picture of how caribou are being impacted, as well as a lot of other species, because they are all connected! And when it comes to animals and their habitats, the more we know about them and how they all work together, the better we can protect them!

Are you ready to join the team? Head to the Adoptions section in the Earth Rangers App or visit the Earth Rangers Shop — get your Caribou Adoption Kit and start making a difference today!