Species MammalsCaribou

Caribou

Rangifer tarandus

UncommonMammal
Illustration of Caribou (Rangifer tarandus)
Safety note: Dangerous — observe from a safe distance.

The Caribou is the only deer species in which both males and females grow antlers. North American populations undertake some of the longest terrestrial migrations of any land mammal, traveling up to 3,000 miles annually between calving and wintering grounds. Their wide, crescent-shaped hooves act like snowshoes and paddles for traversing deep snow and river crossings.

Habitat
Arctic tundra, boreal forests, and subarctic mountains
Diet
Lichens, sedges, willows, and mushrooms
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Caribou

The best time to see a Caribou is May–July, when about 68% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,935 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Not certain it is a Caribou? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

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