Long-term satellite monitoring of muskox to evaluate the potential competition with migratory caribou in Nunavik

From an ecological point of view, the introduction of a species in an ecosystem could induce changes in the conditions and interspecific interactions that are already in place. Native species that can be valuable to local communities as a food supply can be negatively affected by introduced species. Muskox (Ovibos moschatus) have been introduced in Nunavik in the late 1960s. Since then, the population has grown from 15 individuals to more than 1400 in 2004. In contrast to muskox increasing numbers, the two migratory caribou herds (Rangifer tarandus) in Quebec (Rivire aux Feuilles and Rivire George) have declined in numbers over the last 20 years. This decline is concerning because caribou plays an important ecological, economic and cultural role in northern Quebec. Scientists, managers, and local communities wonder about potential competition between the two species.The study aims to evaluate the potential competition between migratory caribou and muskox in Nunavik. Habitat use and selection of muskox will be studied and then compared to caribou habitat selection patterns. The diet overlap between the two species will also be assessed.