Woodland Caribou populations are in serious decline in Alberta with crucial habitat areas experiencing development pressure. Scientific studies conclude no Alberta caribou herds in Alberta are self-sustaining.
The Woodland caribou are the large, shy cousin to the better-known reindeer and migratory tundra caribou, found in Canada’s northern boreal forest. Alberta is home to over 3000 caribou in 13 distinct populations. Most are in decline and several are at immediate risk of extirpation.
The Alberta Wildlife Act designates woodland caribou as a threatened species due to the decline in their distribution and their low numbers resulting from direct habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation.
Woodland caribou are an “umbrella species” - they're sensitive to disturbance, and thrive in intact forest. When Woodland caribou populations are healthy, chances are other species in the area are healthy too.
CPAWS advocates for the protection of caribou habitat and holds government accountable for relevant legislation responsibilities to implement species recovery plans.
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