Caribou (also known as reindeer) Definition | Characteristics & Facts

Caribou, also known as reindeer (Rangifer tarandus), are fascinating animals with several general characteristics and interesting facts:

Distribution

Caribou/reindeer have a wide distribution, inhabiting the Arctic, sub-Arctic, and boreal regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. They can be found in countries such as Canada, Alaska (USA), Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, and Greenland.

Size

Caribou are medium to large-sized deer. Adult males (bulls) are generally larger than females (cows). Bulls can weigh between 350 to 700 kilograms (770 to 1,540 pounds), while cows typically weigh around 160 to 260 kilograms (350 to 570 pounds).

Antlers

Both male and female caribou grow and shed their antlers each year. The antlers of bulls are larger and more elaborate, with multiple points and complex branching. Female caribou also grow antlers, but they are generally smaller and less branched.

Adaptations for Cold Environments

Caribou have several adaptations that help them survive in cold and harsh environments. Their hooves are wide and concave, acting like snowshoes and helping them walk on snow without sinking. They have a thick winter coat and a specialized nasal structure that warms the air before it reaches their lungs.

Seasonal Migration

Caribou are known for their impressive long-distance migrations. They undertake seasonal movements between their winter and summer ranges in search of food and to avoid extreme weather conditions.

Diet

Caribou are herbivores and primarily graze on a variety of plant materials. They feed on grasses, sedges, shrubs, lichens, mosses, and other vegetation found in their habitats. Their specialized digestive system allows them to extract nutrients from tough and fibrous plant materials.

Social Structure

Caribou are social animals and often form large herds. During the breeding season (rut), males engage in fierce competition to establish dominance and access to females. Herds can consist of hundreds or even thousands of individuals, especially during migration.

Cultural Significance

Caribou/reindeer have been an integral part of the culture and subsistence of indigenous peoples in their range for millennia. They provide food, clothing, and materials for various traditional purposes, and their presence is deeply intertwined with the heritage and customs of these cultures.

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