Woodland caribou refers to a subspecies of caribou, scientifically known as Rangifer tarandus caribou, which inhabits the boreal forests of North America. They are primarily found in the woodland regions of Canada, including parts of Newfoundland, Labrador, Quebec, and British Columbia.
Woodland caribou are characterized by their large size, with adult males weighing between 350 and 600 pounds (160-275 kg) and measuring around 4 to 5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) tall at the shoulder. They have long legs and large, broad hooves that help them in traversing through the deep snow and swamps of their habitat.
These caribou have a distinctive appearance, with both males and females sporting antlers. The antlers of woodland caribou are typically larger compared to other subspecies and feature a unique shape, resembling the branches of a tree. They serve as a means of defense, competition during mating season, and as a visual display of dominance.
Woodland caribou are herbivorous animals, feeding mainly on lichens, mosses, grasses, and leaves of shrubs and trees. They are well-adapted to their forested environment, with specialized digestive systems that allow them to extract nutrients from low-quality forage.
Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect woodland caribou populations, as their numbers have significantly decreased due to habitat destruction, predation, and disturbances from human activities. These include measures such as habitat restoration, predator control, and restrictions on industrial development within their range.
