Reindeer populations have plummeted by nearly 40% over the past few decades. This sparks an urgent call for conservation. From an estimated 4.8 million animals, numbers have fallen to approximately 2.9 million.
These numbers are a threat to these species and their survival. Experts attribute this decline to climate change, habitat loss, and overhunting.
Climate Change Endangers Arctic Wildlife
Soaring temperatures are changing the Arctic tundra and the availability of lichen. Lichen is a major food source for reindeer. Inconsistent snowpack and ice build-up make foraging difficult when the winter months rage on which boosts the risk of starvation. Fragmentation of habitat due to human development and activity, further hinders reindeer migratory patterns.
Conservation call for Reindeers
People who care about nature are trying hard to help reindeer by keeping an eye on where they go and protecting the groups. In Alaska, some of these groups are doing better, but others are still getting smaller.
It is tough to keep up with the reindeer in Russia because they live so far away in such big areas. The goal now is to allow people to harvest some of them without adversely affecting overall populations and keep their habitats healthy.
Reindeer Are Valuable
Reindeer are very valuable in the Arctic. They govern which plant species grow and support animals like wolves and bears. A continued decline could trigger cascading effects, disrupting food chains and local biodiversity.
Looking Ahead
Scientists emphasise the need for international collaboration to mitigate threats. Without timely action, reindeer may face further population collapses, altering the ecological balance of Arctic regions forever.
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