Inuit harvesting levels of caribou in the Kitikmeot Region, Northwest Territories, Canada, 1982 — 1984

Abstract

Information on the native harvest of caribou (Rangifer tarandus spp.) has been systematically collected in the Kitikmeot (Central Arctic) Region of the Northwest Territories since October 1982 through a cooperative effort between the Kitikmeot Hunters and Trappers Association and the Department of Renewable Resources. During the first 2 years of the study about 640 active hunters in 7 communities, or 20% of the Inuit population, were included. Local fieldworkers contacted an average of 80% of all hunters each month. The estimated regional harvest between October 1982 and September 1984 was 18 827±260 (SE) caribou. In the reported harvest (n=12 969), bulls dominated (54%) followed by cows (32%) and juveniles (<15 months old; 14%). The successful hunters harvested on the average 3.5 caribou/hunter/month. When extrapolated over the total Inuit population in the Region, the estimated caribou harvest was equivalent to an annual harvest of 3.1 caribou/person. This harvest level was relatively consistent between communities and years.