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Journal Publications
Case
R.L., and Buckland L. 1998. Reproductive characteristics of grizzly
bears in the Kugluktuk area, Northwest Territories, Canada. Ursus
10:41-47.
Abstract
Reproduction and survival of grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) were
studies in the area southwest of Kugluktuk, Northwest Territories, between
1988 and 1995. Thirteen radiocollared female grizzly bears were monitored
for up to 7 years in tundra habitat southwest of Kugluktuk. Adult survival
was high (98%); the only 2 adult female mortalities were from intraspecific
predation. Mean littler size was 203 cubs <1 year old (n=19), mean
birth interval was 2.6 years (n=8), and the annual natality rate was
0.87 cubs/adult female. Mean reproductive interval between successful
litters was 303 years (n=6). First cub survival was 81%, and
second-year cub survival was 76-84%. Age at first parturition averaged 8.7
years (n=6), which is later than in other northern grizzly bear
populations. However, growth curves indicated that maturity was not delayed
by nutrition. The estimated finite rate of population increase (8)
was 1.026. These results indicate that the Kugluktuk grizzly bear
population can sustain a small harvest provided that females are protected. |
