Selkirk Mountains caribou transplant, October 1985 - September 1986

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The Selkirk caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) was given permanent listing as an endangered species in early 1985. Recent research has shown the population consists of 25-30 individuals which appears to be in decline. Although adult mortality does not appear high, recruitment is low as a result of high calf mortality. Low recruitment appears to be the reason for the apparent stagnation of the herd, which may be a result of inbreeding depression. The potential for a catastrophic reduction of this small population exists because of avalanche and highway collision hazards. Long-term management of this herd towards recovery involves conservative and controversial habitat management in an area under heavy and diverse resource demands. Recovery of this small caribou herd appears dependent on a successful caribou transplant. Augmentation of the herd or transplanting caribou into unoccupied habitat in the Selkirks has been proposed as early as 1974. Transplantation of caribou into unoccupied Selkirk habitat would: 1) immediately increase the numbers of caribou in the Selkirks, 2) guard against a catastrophic reduction of caribou in the Selkirks, 3) increase genetic diversity and prevent potential inbreeding depression, 4) increase the reproductive potential of Selkirk caribou, and 5) accelerate recovery towards an initial target population of 100 individuals and eventually towards a viable population that can be de-listed. Initially the caribou augmentation or transplant was scheduled to begin in the fall of 1985. However, the decision was made by Regional Forester Tom Coston of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to delay the transplant until the most current research information was applied in formulating caribou habitat management guidelines for the USFS. A cooperative interdisciplinary team of foresters, silviculturalists, and biologists completed the required guidelines in early 1986. Following the development of the guidelines the Chief of the USFS ruled against 2 opposing appeals of the Regional Forester's decision, clearing the way for the transplant project to commence. Events that took place and jobs that were accomplished prior to the decision on the appeals have been documented in a February 1986 report on the caribou transplant. Subsequent to the appeals decision, work on the caribou transplant has been in 5 primary areas: 1) study planning, 2) logistical planning, 3) agency coordination, 4) information planning and management, and 5) continuing projects.

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Reference Code: U86SER01IDUS

Full Citation: Servheen, G. 1986. Selkirk Mountains caribou transplant, October 1985 - September 1986. Threatened and Endangered Species Report, Idaho Department of Fish and Game. 40 pp.

Location: ANIMAL EF: RANGIFER TARANDUS CARIBOU