Abstracts » Zoology and wildlife conservation

Effects of petroleum exploration on woodland caribou in northeastern Alberta

Article Abstract:

The apparent decline in the woodland caribou population of Alberta, Canada, has been attributed to petroleum exploration and development. A new study, designed to assess the effect of simulated petroleum exploration on the behavioural responses of woodland caribou, is presented. The study shows that loud noise significantly increases a caribou's rate of movement but there is no significant increase in the distance travelled. It is suggested that increased movement could cause higher energy usage during winter and that human disturbance should be limited during the season.

Behavior, Natural gas exploration, Oil and gas exploration, Petroleum exploration

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Woodland caribou relative to landscape patterns in Northeastern Alberta

Article Abstract:

Researchers monitored 65 adult woodland caribou in Alberta during three years from 1991. The researchers aimed to determine the population status and ecology of these animals, as increased human activity is believed to threaten the woodland caribou population. The researchers studied movement and mortality amongst populations in two landscapes composed of different configurations of fen and upland. Results indicated that the caribou population may be declining slowly, and suggested that the maintenance of fen complexes may offer the best solution for species protection.

Research, Observations, Landscape, Population biology

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Declines in populations of woodland caribou

Article Abstract:

Studies of caribou population declines in Alberta, Canada, show that predation by wolves and alteration of habitat via human activity are the primary factors behind the declines. New land-use guidelines that address caribou conservation issues will be needed to reverse the declines.

Alberta, Measurement, Comparative analysis, Human beings, Human-environment interactions, Protection and preservation, Predation (Biology), Mammal populations

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