pdf ENR Bluenose East Survey Report REVIEW DRAFT 16-02-19 Popular

This report details the calving ground photo survey of the Bluenose-East caribou herd conducted during June of 2015 in Nunavut (NU), near Kugluktuk, NU. The main objective was to obtain an estimate of breeding females that could be compared to estimates from previous calving ground surveys in 2010 and 2013.

Demographic modelling that used composition, collared caribou, and survey data estimated that cow survival rate was low (0.71, CI=0.69-0.72) and calf recruitment has declined. These factors along with harvest pressure have led to the ongoing decline of the herd.  The authors suggest that continued monitoring and proactive management of harvest with a shift from mostly cows to mostly bulls is recommended. In addition, continued monitoring of calving ground distribution and spring productivity should be conducted to allow ongoing monitoring of herd status.