Dolphin and Union Caribou cross arctic sea ice and migrate between Victoria Island and the Canadian mainland (provinces of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories). In 1997 the population of Dolphin and Union Caribou was 34,558 and is not a staggering 3,815 as of 2020. Between 2015 to 2018 the population declined by over 78% alone.
The photo to the left shows the entire region Dolphin & Union Caribou explore.
Below is a photo of Victoria Island, the location where the species migrates during the summer. In order to make this journey Dolphin & Union travel across using sea ice.
Species Role in the Ecosystem
Dolphin and Union Caribou are prey to wolves. Both populations are indicators of the status of the other. When the population of caribou is low the number of wolf pups also decreases.
Dolphin and Union Caribou are incorporated both socially and economically into Inuit and Inuvialuit culture. The species is used as a food source and are often harvested by the community. Every part of the animal is used and follows a no-waste system. Spiritually Inuit and Inuvialuit people also respect caribou.
Cause of Decline
Climate Change
During seasonal migration, Dolphin and Union caribou are now drowning due to the lack of sea ice.
Parasites
Parasites such as warble flies and nose botflies use caribous as their host even though they are well adapted to survive the Arctic climate.
Humans
Disturbances such as hunting, development, oil and gas exploration, and shipping (boats break the ice used to migrate) have impacted the population of caribou.
Why Care?
The extinction of the Dolphin and Union Caribou would have significant negative impacts on wolves. Wolf pups would die and the population would begin to decrease.
Additionally, the Dolphin and Union Caribou are genetically unique. Did you know that the Dolphin and Union Caribou differ remarkedly from other members in the taxon? I bet you didn't.
Lastly, Santa needs reindeer, duh. If the Dolphin and Union Caribou go extinct it could take 2 nights, instead of the normal one, for him to make his trip around the world.
All jokes aside the genetic makeup of the species is unique and the role it plays in the food chain for wolves is significant. Inuit and Inuvialuit populations would also be negatively impacted by the decrease in food and other animal-related resources (fur, etc).
Current Conservation Efforts
1. A calving area in the Olokhaktomiut Community Conservation Plan in the Colville Mountains has been identified for the Dolphin and Union caribou.
2. Restrictions on Dolphin and Union caribou harvesting have been implemented in 2020/21 by the OHTC and Nunavut (105 is the total allowable harvest).
3. Financial incentives to increase wolf harvesting have been implemented by the WMAC (NWT) and GNWT in 2021 in the Inubialuit Settlement Region.
4. To prevent icebreaking a Notice to Mariners (NOTMAR) for vessels traveling through the area was created to reduce icebreaking to wildlife and people.
How Geospatial Tools Aids In Conservation
The largest threat to Dolphin and Union caribou is climate change melting the sea ice. With satellites GIS geographers can map the locations with large gaps or thin ice and help us understand the route caribou currently take, and where we need to focus remediation.
How You Can Help!
Climate change is melting the sea ice necessary for Dolphin and Union to migrate without drowning. Here are actions you can take to help save Santa's helpers!
1. Donate to the Arctic Ice Project
This organization is leading efforts to arctic ice from melting.
Your donation will impact climate modeling, eco-toxicological testing, laboratory analysis, and Arctic field research.
2. Stop the Willow Project!
Sign a petition and say NO to the Willow Project to help protect Arctive wildlife.
The Biden administration has approved an oil drilling project that will add 250 million tons of CO2 and destroy arctic habitats.
3. Power Your Home with Renewable Energy
In order to have an impact on global warming, choose "a utility company that generates at least half its power from wind or solar and has been certified by Green-e Energy".
4. Use Alternative Forms of Transportation
CO2 and gasoline are polluting our are and is a significant contributor to global warming. Help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by switching your form of transportation. Bike more, take the bus, ride the train, or even carpool.
5. Be Aware of Greenwashing and Spend Your Money Wisely
When it comes to fashion "good and cheap" usually means "horrible and damaging" to the environment. Before you go shopping use websites like Good on You to check how sustainable the company really is.
EXTRA: Watch Cute Videos of Caribou (I promise it'll make you smile)
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