Caribou Breeds In Danger Of Extinction

by Jennifer Smith November 21, 2018

While white-tailed deer are plentiful across North America; other cervid species aren't so wide spread. In fact, the caribou breed is the least likely to be seen in Canada. And, the numbers are only declining.

"The Bathurst and Bluenose East caribou herds have declined by more than 50 per cent since 2015, according to the N.W.T. Department of Environment and Natural Resources." (CBC News) In 2016, they were placed on the "threatened" class of species list by the Committee on Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada.

"Surveys conducted in June 2018 estimate the Bathurst herd at just 8,200 animals, down from 20,000 in 2015. The Bluenose East population was estimated at 19,300 animals, down from 39,000 in 2015." (CBC News)

While hunters are mainly blamed for the caribou decline, wolves are second; killing between 25-29 caribou each year for food.

Conservationists are encouraged to protect caribou with deer and elk fencing and change the rules for hunting these endangered animals in Canada.