Wolf predation on caribou: the Nelchina herd case history, a different interpretation

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1988
Authors:Bergerud, AT, Ballard, WB
Journal:Journal of Wildlife Management
Volume:52
Pagination:344-357
Date Published:1988
Keywords:Canis lupus
Abstract:

The Nelchina Rangifer tarandus herd in S-central Alaska erupted from 1953-1961, declined from 1961-1972, and increased again after 1976. Calf recruitment was low prior to gray wolf Canis lupus control in 1949-51. After wolves were reduced recruitment improved from 1951-1956. Recruitment of 2.5-yr-old caribou from 1952-1967 was correlated with wolf numbers (r = -0.693) but not with winter snow depths. However, in 1964, 1965 and 1966 heavy snow cover may have prevented females from reaching the calving grounds and cows calved at lower elevations nearer to predators. In these 3 yr, recruitment was low and loss of these 3 cohorts was a major factor in the decline from 1961-1972. There was no evidence of winter starvation in any year. After 1976, the wolf population was again reduced, caribou recruitment improved, and the herd increased. Predation of young animals was the most consistent natural limiting factor in the dynamics of this herd from 1950-1984.

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