Get close to Alaskan nature during the annual Caribou migration, the longest migration of any terrestrial animal - involving about 150-200,000 animals every year.
After wintering and making babies in Southern Alaska, the caribou set off along the route of the Porcupine River - some 400 miles long - aiming for the calving grounds of the coastal plain of Northern Alaska.
By late March, the females are ready to move north to give birth - they either follow the valleys, or climb the high ridges, surviving on waning lichen as they go. Sometimes their food supply is perilously low. But by late May, they enter the more lush areas, full of cottongrass - just in time to give them nourishment and strength for calving. The vast majority of calves take their first breath in the first ten days of June - and only half will survive the hunger of the eagles, bears and wolves through the rest of the month.
Following a part (or indeed all for those with the time) of this caribou migration is an exceptional wildlife trip - there are plenty of professionals to arrange it for you and different routes to take. Each is sure to be worth it.
Please note: the migration is subject to such factors as the weather each year, and dates are approximate. For details of the exact whereabouts of the animals and further information on their habits, please visit the Caribou Herd Satellite Collaring Project website.
By late March, the females are ready to move north to give birth - they either follow the valleys, or climb the high ridges, surviving on waning lichen as they go. Sometimes their food supply is perilously low. But by late May, they enter the more lush areas, full of cottongrass - just in time to give them nourishment and strength for calving. The vast majority of calves take their first breath in the first ten days of June - and only half will survive the hunger of the eagles, bears and wolves through the rest of the month.
Following a part (or indeed all for those with the time) of this caribou migration is an exceptional wildlife trip - there are plenty of professionals to arrange it for you and different routes to take. Each is sure to be worth it.
Please note: the migration is subject to such factors as the weather each year, and dates are approximate. For details of the exact whereabouts of the animals and further information on their habits, please visit the Caribou Herd Satellite Collaring Project website.