Search

This report presents preliminary results of mapping and analyzing wild reindeer spatial dynamics in Taimyr, Russia. We collected, spatially referenced, and systematized comprehensive aerial and land survey information spanning from 1969 to 2003, which is the most complete long-term data available about a wild reindeer herd in Eurasia. The report introduces some of the mapping products and presents a summary of our observations on spatiotemporal changes in reindeer distribution and migration. Using these data and new digital products in the GIS (Geographic Information Systems) environment, we were able to observe the long-term shift of the Taimyr Reindeer Herd's summer, winter, and calving areas to the east and south with a simultaneous expansion of the habitat. We identified and confirmed locations of large reindeer concentrations (herds) seasonally formed throughout the study period. Using the most recent summer survey data (2009) we also were able to confirm the existence of two major migration flows in the fall: eastern (most reindeer) and western.

Da strukturerings- og optimaliseringsprosessen innen reindriften skjøt fart i Trøndelag, - i 1976-77 som følge av reindriftsavtalen -, hadde man felles startgrop med Finnmark, - en kjøttproduksjon på 10-12 kg pr. rein i vårflokken. Utviklingen etter 1976-77 har tatt ulike løp. Dette skyldes ikke rovdyr eller andre naturgitte forhold. Det bør derfor være mulig å snu trenden innen Finnmark ved i noen grad å følge de strategier og faglige opplegg som har vært grunnleggende for utviklingen i sør. Klarhet i sør og mangel på klarhet i nord med hensyn til rammebetingelsene for reindriftsutøvelsen (reintall og antall driftsenheter innen distriktene samt høgste reintall pr. driftsenhet) er kanskje den mest fundamentale forskjell mellom områdene.

In this paper we examine genetic relationships of caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in the Aishihik, Chisana, and Wolf Lake herds in the Yukon using DNA fingerprinting. The assignment test used in this analysis showed that the caribou herds were distinct. This finding is consistent with movement data from radio-collared caribou which demonstrates home range fidelity. We found a high level of heterozygosity and a genetic basis for population boundaries. DNA fingerprinting may provide an effective means to compare ecological and genetic relationships.