Most caribou are further north, where they can raise their young away from the constant buzzing and biting of mosquitoes, but if we are lucky, we can spot a few lone caribou near Toolik.
Caribou at Imnavait
When it comes to antlers both the male and female caribou produce them. Males will shed them in October after the rut. Cows will shed their antlers now, in June, after calving. Caribou have an interesting adaptation. Their hooves are shaped like an upside down bowl. Their toes spread when they walk and this shape makes it easier for them to walk on the snow. Kind of like snow shoes! Around this time of year the caribou will be feeding on leaves of shrubs, sedges, and grasses. In the winter lichen make up 90% of their diet.
On our drive back from Imnavait yesterday, we spotted a male crossing the road. Watch the video below!
Fly Your Flag in the Arctic
Today's flags are from Memorial Junior High!
Student Flag
Student Flag
Source: Land of Extremes: A Natural History of the Arctic North Slope of Alaska by Alex Huryn and John Hobbie
Add new comment