GOOD Travels: The Incredible Journey of the Fortymile Caribou
The majestic Fortymile Caribou herd is one of the most iconic wildlife spectacles in Alaska and western Canada. The animals embark on a remarkable migration each year, spanning a range of 200 miles. The herd’s journey takes them from east of Fairbanks to the forests and alpine regions of Canada. At this point in the year, their calves, born in May and June, have already traveled more than 500 miles!
In mid-June, the herd was spotted by photographer Mark Lindberg near Chicken, Alaska, heading east from their calving grounds. By the end of June, aerial surveys found them in the far eastern parts of their range, deep into western Canada. As the summer months progressed, they migrated to the White Mountains of Alaska, only to turn east again in August. Their unpredictable path saw another sudden turn westward by early September. This movement, shaped by their environment and instincts, highlights the ever-changing dynamics of their migration.
One striking feature of these animals is the unique clicking sound made by their tendons as they walk. Some believe this natural adaptation helps them locate one another in bad weather, making the experience of observing them even more extraordinary. A short trail camera video from June, captured by Lindberg, brings this moment to life as the herd moves through the Alaskan wilderness.
Fortymile Caribou belong to the barren-ground variety, typically residing in alpine areas but occasionally venturing into forested regions. Historically, the herd’s size has been a topic of debate, with some estimates suggesting that it once numbered as many as 600,000. By 1974, however, their numbers had dwindled to a critical low of 4,000, triggering major conservation efforts. Predator control measures helped the herd recover to nearly 80,000 by the 1990s, but the land could not sustain such a large population. Over time, the herd was reduced to its current size of around 38,000.
The GOOD Smoking Caribou
For GOOD Cannabis, the Fortymile Caribou is more than just a symbol—it’s part of the brand’s DNA. The caribou’s resilience, adaptability, and ability to thrive in challenging environments are the same qualities that GOOD Cannabis strives to embody - these are the qualities of Alaskans. Like the caribou, GOOD Cannabis honors its roots in the wild landscapes of Alaska, and focuses on supporting community resilience in the face of the harsh conditions Alaskans often face. The caribou’s journey, much like the journey of all Alaskans, is one of endurance, adaptability, and staying true to one’s path.
Conservation of the Fortymile Caribou herd remains a delicate balancing act, with the health of the ecosystem and the animals always in mind. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience and the challenges we face in preserving such magnificent wildlife.
Photos and ecological insights provided by Mark Lindberg, wildlife photographer and ecologist.
