Caribou Identification
Caribou (Rangifer tarandus) are the only member of the deer family (Cervidae) in which both sexes grow antlers. Antlers of adult bulls can be large and massive; those of adult cows are usually much shorter and more slender. Caribou have large, concave hooves that spread widely to support the animal in snow and soft tundra. The hooves also function as paddles when caribou swim. In late fall, caribou are clove-brown with a white neck, rump, and feet and often have a white flank stripe. The hair of newborn calves ranges from dark, chocolate brown to reddish brown. Newborn calf weights range from about 13-20 pounds (6-9kg), and grow very quickly, some doubling their weight in 10-15 days. Weights of adult bulls average 350-400 pounds (159-181 kg), although weights of 700 pounds (318 kg) have been recorded. Mature females average 175-265 pounds (79-120 kg).
