Page 192 - The Miracle of Migration in Animals

THE MIRACLE OF MIGRATION IN ANIMALS

Caribou Migrations

The barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus) is one of the longest
distance travelers of animals migrating overland. They generally inhabit
regions where winter is severe, but these animals are strong walkers.
Satellite tracking of ten adult female caribou established that they trav-
eled 4,350 kilometers (2,700 miles) from their forest winter habitat to the
coastal plains. One cow from this herd set the world’s record for the
longest journey by land mammals at 5,055 kilometers (3,140 miles) in a
year. 51
The reason for caribous’ migration varies according to the season. In
spring they travel from their winter habitat to where they will give birth
to their young. Pregnant females start their journey while the ground is
still frozen, and the calving grounds are also snow-covered when they ar-

rive. But they must find food when their young are born, and they give

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