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Calving Time, Growth Rate, and Body Size of Norwegian Reindeer on Different Ranges

1983; Taylor & Francis; Volume: 15; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês

10.2307/1550986

2325-5153

Eigil Reimers, David R. Klein, Rolf Sørumgård,

Climate change and permafrost

Among three populations of wild reindeer in alpine areas of varying climatic characteristics in southern Norway, growth rates were found to be most rapid, ultimate body size greater, and calving 2 to 3 wk earlier in North Ottadalen than in Rondane and Hardangervidda. The differences in growth rates, body size, and calving time are believed to be related to more favorable foraging conditions during the spring and summer periods in North Ottadalen. Less favorable winter foraging conditions in Hardangervidda than in Rondane or North Ottadalen did not result in different body weight development during winter in the three areas. Body weights of pregnant females decreased moderately from maximum in autumn to April. From April to June, North Ottadalen females suffered the highest weight drop owing to earlier calving time and later plant growth. The data support the hypothesis of summer growth and winter dormancy in reindeer.