Demographic, genetic, and physiological responses of woodland caribou to changes in habitat across a managed forest landscape.

Boreal Woodland Caribou is a species of conservation concern that faces challenges due to habitat alteration and landscape disturbances. This research project aims to explore how landscape disturbance and habitat quality affect demographics, genetics, and physiology of woodland caribou. Three subprojects focus on specific aspects: 1) understanding how landscape factors impact caribou population density, 2) assessing the effects of disturbances on population structure and gene flow, and 3) examining the influence of landscape condition on stress and pregnancy rates. The research integrates spatial analysis, genetic studies, and physiological measurements. It will analyze factors like forest composition, age, roads, wildfires, and harvests to understand their impact on caribou across the study area. Genetic analysis will assess connectivity, considering potential barriers like fires and roads. The third subproject will study stress and pregnancy rates by analyzing hormones in fecal samples. This comprehensive approach aims to provide insights into how woodland caribou respond to various landscape conditions, contributing to conservation efforts and helping formulate strategies for road decommissioning and rehabilitation. The research outcomes are crucial for understanding caribou habitat dynamics and supporting the provincial conservation strategy.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ashley Thomson;Dzhamal Amishev

Student:

Partner:

Dryden Fibre Canada;Weyerhaeuser

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

Lakehead University

Program: