The Complex Effects of Climate Change on Woodland Caribou (FS-24-03)

 Climate change is a complex issue with far-reaching implications for ecosystems worldwide, particularly in higher latitudes. Woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou), a threatened sub-species closely linked to Canada’s boreal forests, may face challenges from the interaction between climate shifts and ecological dynamics. This Fact Sheet explores the detailed effects of climate change on woodland caribou, covering habitat use and nutrition; physiological responses; insect, disease, and parasite dynamics; predator-prey relationships; and natural disturbances.

Keywords: boreal, caribou, climate change, disturbance, forest-dwelling, forest management, habitat, natural disturbance, nutrition, predation, Rangifer tarandus caribou, woodland caribou

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Related Resources

What Do Caribou Eat — And Why Is It Important?

Finding Enough Good Food to Eat Can be Challenging for Caribou in Northeastern British Columbia (FS-22-02)

Technical Bulletin No. 1066: Current State of Knowledge and Research on Woodland Caribou in Canada