Last Friday, a group of six Woodland caribou was reported along the Icefields Parkway, 72 km south of Jasper, not far from the Sunwapta Warden Station.
While it is not unusual for caribou to be spotted along the highway between Sunwapta Falls and the Beauty Creek Hostel at this time of year, it has been a few years since they’ve been seen there.
There is good caribou habitat on both sides of the Parkway so it is likely that the animals are travelling between mountain ranges, or possibly scouting for early vegetation growing in the valley bottom.
The Woodland caribou found along the Icefields Parkway are part of the Brazeau herd, one of four herds in the park. This group, along with other herds found in the mountain national parks, are listed as threatened under Canada’s Species at Risk Act.
There are only about 10 caribou left in the Brazeau herd, so please drive with caution and watch for these animals on your travels south. If you are lucky enough to spot one of these extraordinary animals, don’t be alarmed if they appear to be a bit thin, as this is normal for this time of year. Most ungulates (hoofed animals) lose weight over the winter but quickly regain it with spring green-up.
Exploring the Icefields Parkway offers unique opportunities to see wildlife, including caribou, in their natural habitat.
Need park info? Head to the Jasper National Park Information Centre.
Whether you have guests wondering about the best hiking conditions or needing brochures and guides to help plan their time here, or you’re looking to book a backcountry trip, the Parks Canada Information Centre is the place to go.
The Park Information centre is now open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Beginning May 16, hours will increase to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Parks Canada
Special to the Fitzhugh
