Management of Labrador Caribou

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1967
Authors:Bergerud, AT
Journal:The Journal of Wildlife Management
Volume:31
Pagination:621-642
Date Published:1967
ISBN Number:0022541X
Keywords:Canis lupus
Abstract:

Population status, recruitment, and mortality statistics were analyzed for Labrador caribou (Rangifer tarandus) populations from 1958-63 to determine population trends. Two primary herds were recognized, the Mealy Mountain Herd in southern Labrador occupying a region between Paradise River and the south shore of Lake Melville, and the George River Herd situated at the headwaters of the George River in northern Ungava. Census figures for the Mealy Mountain Herd were 2,400 animals in 1958, 1,900 in 1960, and 800 in 1963. March recruitment figures for the Mealy Mountain Herd for 6 years averaged 11 percent, calves/(calves plus adults). The average annual harvest in the 6-year interim was 539 animals. The mean annual mortality rate was calculated at 30-31 percent and the mean annual hunting mortality at 26-27 percent, 1958-63. The annual natural mortality of caribou alive in March was estimated at 6 percent. Calf mortality from birth to 9 months was calculated at 71 percent. Closed seasons were recommended for the Mealy Mountain Herd in 1959-60 and thereafter. However, public pressure prevented a closed season except in 1959-60 and 1965-66. Failure to manage the Mealy Mountain Herd on a sustained yield basis resulted from a failure to convince the public that the census figures were reasonably accurate and that the population was declining. The George River Herd was estimated at 15,000 in 1958. March recruitment figures for 6 years were 11 percent. The annual kill by Labrador residents varied from 600 to 1,100 animals. Evidence from several sources indicated that the herd increased from 1958 to 1963. The decline of Labrador caribou around 1900 is attributed to overhunting. The possibility of pristine population regulation through range overutilization and/or wolf predation is discussed and the latter is favored by the author.

URL:http://www.jstor.org/stable/3797966
Taxonomic name: 
Thu, 2014-03-20 12:44 -- admin
https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5ade1b012674ce3dd941e2ea5dd15cc1.jpg?d=https%3A//mammals.indianbiodiversity.org/sites/all/modules/contrib/gravatar/avatar.png&s=100&r=G
Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith