Does forest harvesting and linear infrastructure change the usability value of pastureland for semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus)?

• Published in: Annales zoologici fennici 2007, Vol.44 (3), p.161-178
• Main Authors: Kumpula, Jouko, Colpaert, Alfred, Anttonen, Marja
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Caribous; Coniferous forests; Forest habitats; Habitat preferences; Habitat selection; Herding; Lichens; Old growth forests; Pastures; Rangifer tarandus tarandus; Reindeer
• ISSN: 0003-455X; 1797-2450

During the harshest winter, preference of forest habitat by reindeer should be dependent on the availability of energy-rich lichens, while in summer and easy snow conditions on the availability of protein-richer food. Reindeer should also avoid linear infrastructure (roads, power lines) if it causes disturbance and energy loss. We tested seasonal home range and habitat selection by semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) in a sub-arctic pine forest area, northern Finland by tracking 29 female reindeer with GPS collars from 1999—2002. As expected, reindeer preferred old-growth forest and avoided felled areas and linear infrastructure in the selection and use of their wintering areas. Old-growth forest had high preference especially in late winter. During summer and early winter, reindeer also used sapling stand areas, young cultivated forests, mires and high-elevation open land. The net energy balance hypothesis including the total energy profits and expenditures could primarily explain habitat selection by reindeer during winter in intensively grazed and logged forest areas. Maintaining a certain amount of old-growth forest and minimizing linear infrastructure in wintering areas considerably improves the suitability of these ranges for reindeer herding.