[July 13, 2026, Nakusp] – This spring, one female and three male caribou calves were born in the Central Selkirk Caribou Maternity Pen. Although ALCS did not receive the laboratory pregnancy test results in time to confirm which cows were pregnant at the time of capture in March 2026, shepherds closely monitored the herd throughout the season and identified four cows showing signs consistent with pregnancy. The remaining five cows did not display behavioural or physical indicators of pregnancy.
The calves were born between May 28th and June 23rd. The three male calves are healthy and gaining weight steadily under close daily monitoring. The female calf, however, failed to nurse and developed acute neonatal septicemia, passing away despite prompt intervention by shepherds. Veterinary assessment confirmed mastitis in her dam, a painful condition of the udder that likely contributed to the calf’s inability to nurse. The cow has been treated and is now being monitored closely as she recovers.
Caribou will remain in the maternity pen until they are released from the pen in mid-July 2026, once the youngest calf is at least six weeks old.
Throughout the penning season, caribou are closely monitored by a dedicated team that includes two wildlife technicians, ALCS team members, and wildlife biologists. Veterinary oversight is led by Dr. Amélie Mathieu, with support during the calving period from veterinary technician Dan Wallon of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship staff have also assisted with shepherding.
Access to the Kuskanax Forest Service Road is controlled at 600 metres up from Hot Springs Road. Access is currently open but should be limited to reduce disturbances causing undue stress to the caribou during the critical calving and neonatal periods. Slow, quiet, and respectful access is permitted under the direction of ALCS. Sound management in the vicinity of the pen is paramount to minimize disturbance to the caribou.
We are grateful to the community, project partners, and supporters whose commitment makes this work possible. Your continued involvement supports the maternity pen program and contributes to the recovery of the Central Selkirk herd.
For more information about the Central Selkirk Caribou Maternity Pen, visit our social media pages (Facebook: @arrowlakescaribou; Instagram: @arrow_lakes_caribou) or contact ALCS directly at al.caribou.society@gmail.com.
Arrow Lakes Caribou Society 