Caribou Numbers Dropping Drastically

[Jacalynn Furlong]

Concerns continue regarding the sustainability of the George River Caribou Herd. The Department of Environment and Conservation says a census completed in July shows the herd stands at approximately 27,600 animals -- a significant decrease from the 2010 census which indicated 74,000 animals. Minister responsible, Terry French, says the results of the survey are very concerning and confirm government's fears that we haven't yet seen the bottom of the current decline. The herd's numbers were estimated at 800,000 in the late 1980's.

French says despite the strict harvest management measures implemented in the last couple of hunting seasons, the survey results confirm that the herd is still declining at an alarming rate. Other indicators of the health of the herd, such as the number of adult animals dying each year compared to the number of calves that survive, suggest that the population decline is continuing. Officials estimate that numbers will likely be below 25,000 by October of this year.

 

The most recent census was conducted by biologists within the department and the Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources, with support from both the Institute of Environmental Monitoring and Research and the Torngat Wildlife and Plants Co-Management Board.

VOCM NEWS