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Journal Publications
Gau, R.J., R. Case, D.F. Penner, and
P.D. McLoughlin. 2002. Feeding patterns barren-ground grizzly bears in
the central Canadian Arctic. Arctic 55:339-344.
Abstract
We collected 169 grizzly bear scats
between 1994 and 1997 to determine the dietary habits of barren-ground
grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) inhabiting Canada’s central Arctic.
From personal observations and fecal analysis we concluded that
barren-ground grizzly bears lead a predominantly carnivorous lifestyle and
are effective predators of caribou (Rangifer tarandus). Caribou was
a predominant diet item during spring, mid-summer and fall. During early
summer grizzly bears foraged primarily on green vegetation. Berries
increased in dietary importance in late summer. Declines in the caribou
population of our study area, or long-term absences, may threaten the local
grizzly bear population. |
