FRIGHT AND FLIGHT BEHAVIOR OF REINDEER

Authors

  • Leonid M. Baskin
  • Joakin Hjältén

Abstract

Vigilance and avoidance behaviors of 8 reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) populations from difference geographical areas were examined by measuring distances of detection and flight from a human approaching on foot. Differences in behavior among populations were mainly explained by differences in hunting pressure, genetic origin (wild, feral, and tame ancestors), and predation pressure. Populations subjected to intensive hunting were more vigilant than populations that experienced no hunting. A significant but less clear pattern occurred for predation. Domestic reindeer in large groups demonstrated the lowest levels of fright and flight behavior.

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Published

2001-01-01

How to Cite

Baskin, L. M., & Hjältén, J. (2001). FRIGHT AND FLIGHT BEHAVIOR OF REINDEER. Alces: A Journal Devoted to the Biology and Management of Moose, 37(2), 435–445. Retrieved from https://alcesjournal.org/index.php/alces/article/view/601