MAMMALS

Caribou (Reindeer), Rangifer tarandus

Family Cervidae (deer, elk, moose)

Size/Weight: body approx. 6' long; approx. 250 lbs. (males larger than females)

Range: Northern Rocky Mountains, Alaska

Habitat: Mountainous forests and meadow, tundra in the northern regions

The caribou is a stocky, heavy member of the deer family, but smaller than an elk. The fur color can vary considerably but is generally pale to dark brown with a whitish, maned neck, rump, and feet just above the hooves. Both males and females grow antlers (those of the male being larger), with a rear portion that supports the tines and a front portion that is palmately pointed. The tail is short and stubby. Caribou often form huge flocks, especially in migration, and are mostly herbivorous, feeding on grasses, lichens, and branches.

Track size (front): 5" wide x 4" long

Track size (rear): 4" wide x 3½" long (not including dewclaws)

Description of Track: Both feet have four toes, with two hooved inner toes and two outer, well-developed dewclaws that often register in the track. The track is very broad and round, wider than long, with much space between the hooves, and resembles two crescents facing each other. The broad foot and dewclaws help with flotation and traction in deep snow.