Summary

Description

Data on population size and productivity of muskoxen Ovibos moschatus Ln the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge were collected during surveys in April and October 1982. The postcalving population was estimated to be between 240 and 25 7 animals. In October, 38 calves were counted for a ratio of 0.49 calvescow 2 years and older and 0.19 calvesanimal older than calf. Complete sex and age composition data for all herds are needed before an accurate estimate of productivity can be made. Three adult mortalities were documented 1n 1982. Distribution and movement of muskoxen were determined by relocating radiocollared animals from midApril through October. In May, 6070 muskoxen from both the Sadlerochit area and the Tamayariak area calved in the hills east of Carter Creek. Other animals calved on the bluffs along the Tamayariak River, on a ridge between Arctic Creek and the Kekiktuk River and along the Niguanak River. Some females were observed done during the birth of their calves. In June after the peak of calving, several animals dispersed into areas not used later in the summer. From July through October muskoxen utilized riparian willow thickets along major river drainages. In midApril animals were observed on windblown ridges above river valleys. Interchange of animals between the Tamayariak and Sadlerochit area was observed. Herds were not stable discrete units throughout the year.