In Alberta, there are two ecotypes of woodland caribou: ‘mountain caribou’ which are found in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, and ‘boreal caribou,’ which are found in northern and northeastern Alberta.

Woodland caribou are an important part of the natural biotic systems in boreal forests. They are a part of predator-prey interactions and in lichen-herbivore dynamics. Aboriginal peoples have used caribou for subsistence hunting, and First Nation cultures and traditions of are often bonded with caribou ecology. Because caribou are found in low densities and are slow to reproduce, they are sensitive to habitat degradation, and can be seen as indicators of human impacts on natural ecosystems.

The caribou range boundaries shown below are derived from historical information, movements of collared animals (telemetry), aerial surveys and known caribou habitat types. These range delineations are based on all available scientifically-derived information, and depict all areas known to be currently occupied by caribou. These maps provide industrial operators, government departments and the general public with the best information currently available on caribou range locations. These range maps are also available through the Landscape Analysis Tool used by the Government of Alberta's Enhanced Approval Process. Specific operating conditions apply to industrial activities within caribou ranges to help mitigate the effects of development on caribou populations and habitat.

Source: http://www.albertacariboucommittee.ca/.