Effects of weather and parasitic insects on behavior and group dynamics of caribou of the Delta Herd, Alaska

Abstract

The influence of weather and parasitic insects on the behavior and group dynamics of caribou (Rangifer tarandus) of the Delta Herd in the north-central Alaska Range was investigated. Data on weather, insect abundance, and caribou behavior were collected during summer in 1994 and 1995. High ambient temperature had the greatest influence on activity budgets and rates of change in activity of caribou. In the insect season, rates of activity changes and standing increased and feeding decreased with high temperature. Rates of activity changes and moving increased and feeding decreased with high temperature, even in the absence of insects. Caribou decreased feeding and increased standing in the presence of oestrid flies, and increased the rate of activity changes in the presence of mosquitoes and oestrid flies. Weather, especially high temperature, and parasitic insects, particularly oestrid flies, affected caribou mainly by decreasing foraging opportunities and increasing energy-expending activities.