‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the park

many creatures were stirring because skies were dark.

While the people relaxed with friends and good cheer,

The outdoors came alive with wolves, elk and deer.

The elk all came looking for refuge they might

Find when park staff had all gone home for the night.

The wolves won’t come near but may be lurking nearby,

They don’t like the people and are really quite shy.

In the meadows and forest under the bright moon,

The hunting is better; there will be a meal soon.

There are deer here a plenty and some elk too,

And when snowpack is low, there is caribou.

But this year the snow is quite fluffy and deep.

Close to the roads and packed trails the wolves they will keep.

Cavell Road is closed though, no tracks to be found,

Allowing the Tonquin herd to sleep safe and sound.

Maligne and Brazeau herds are still in some trouble,

They need their numbers to double and double.

A single event and they could disappear,

Like their neighbours in Banff that we still hold so dear.

At Christmas we think of the reindeer, their cousins,

Pulling Santa’s sleigh of presents by the dozens.

If Maligne caribou had the wish on this day,

They would still be two short to pull Santa’s sleigh.

But the wish that we hope to fulfill for this year

Is a future where caribou are still found here,

On the wide open slopes of our mountains so high

Where the snow lingers deep under a starry sky.

Caribou with unique characteristics,

Are adapted to snow and all winter’s tricks.

Hollow hair that traps body 

heat next to their skin,

And small ears and small tail to help keep the warmth in.

Large hooves like snowshoes float across deep winter snows

And uncover the lichen wherever it grows.

Adapted to live where few others will stray

Helps keep caribou safe and they like it that way.

A secret they keep though of their reindeer brothers

Is a tale about antlers – just ask their mothers.

In winter only girls have antlers you see,

Making Dasher and Prancer, all girls yes siree!

While caribou don’t adapt quickly to change,

Many changes are happening throughout their range.

Five threats to caribou in 

the parks were the key

For actions in a conservation strategy.

With this as a guide and a sound management tool

We hope it brings hope for caribou on this Yule.

Many friends are on board to protect the ‘bou,

Like those from B.C. and the Calgary Zoo.

We can’t do it alone, please won’t you help out?

Have a look at the plan and give us a shout.

It is not very hard, it’s easy to do

There’s a website you see, and comment form too.

So while you get ready for holidays this year,

Give some thought to the “reindeer” while we still have them near.

Our best wishes go out to those near and those far

Peace and joy to all of you wherever you are.

www.parkscanada.gc.ca/caribou