Woodland Caribou Calf Mortality in Insular Newfoundland

Between 1979 and 1984 mortality in woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus teraenovae) calves was studied on Newfoundland island. From three herds, two hundred 1-3 day old calves were outfitted with mortality sensing radio-collars. Calves were usually relacted at least once a day during their first three weeks of life, less frequently thereafter. The chief cause of death was predation by black bears (Ursus americanus) and lynx (Lync ceradensis). Wolves (Canis lupus) are absent from Newfoundland.