Musk-oxen in Ivvavik National Park! Amazing!

Despite only a few glimpses of the caribou migration this year, this year's wildlife viewing was honoured by the presence of Musk-ox (Ovibos moschatus) near our campsite.  Musk-oxen are usually found in high arctic islands and very rarely ventured down south into the treelines.  However, for some unknown reason, this herd of seven adults and one calf came to our campground in the first week of June and stayed around for at least for a week.

Lots of photos below, just a heads-up.

They were first spotted by an elder in our group.  On the first day (June 9th), they were on the other side of the creek and up the hill.

After dinner, the Parks biologist and a few volunteers and researchers went up the hill to see where the Musk-ox went.  Once we were over the hill, there the Musk-oxen were, about 200-300 meters away from us!

They were not really disturbed by our presence, although they do have a calf with them, which may explain this characteristic defense formation by the Musk-oxen.

Grazing while keeping an eye out for us at the same time.

Amazing!

Moving to another spot.


The baby!

 

Back of the baby again with adults guarding it.

 

Lone Musk-ox against the bare landscape in June (with some snow).

The following day, while my field assistant and I were going to one of my study sites, we saw the Musk-oxen coming down from the hill and resting just across the camp.  We couldn't help but try to get closer to see these animals closer-up.

Not the typical habitat where you'd find Musk-ox.

Most of them lying on the ground trying to not overheat.  Can't imagine how hot they must feel with the amazing but heavy coat of fur.

Looking at the shaggy coat!  So soft-looking!

Smelling the air.


Scratching its chin against the dead stump.  I actually went over there after the Musk-ox had gone and touched the fur that got tangled in wood.  Such an amazing feeling!




I think there were some people returning back to camp at this moment and making typical human noises, causing the Musk-ox to feel uneasy.

The Musk-ox decided they had enough of the humans and moved on.

Passing by and getting closer to where we were taking photos.

Looking at us.

The closest I will ever get to a wild Musk-ox, I think.  Definitely one of my most special wildlife moments ever!  This one as well.

Tomorrow, like last year, I will be going to Prequ'ile Provincial Park with the Trent ornithology class to do some birding.  Exciting!  Hope the weather will be decent.  Here are last year's posts about Presqu'ile - Parts 1 and 2.

Happy first day of Autumn, everyone!