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"The variety of life in nature can be compared to a vast library of unread books......"

Peter Matthiessen, 1986

Photographers and nature lovers alike, enjoy watching the Caribou migration.  In the spring they travel in large herds, in the fall they are moving south and travel in smaller groupings.

The advantage of coming in the fall, the Caribou coats are thick and full, preparing for the harsh winters. In the spring they are shedding;  their coats are patched as the hair begins to thin out.

In the Fall smaller animals scurry about, gathering and storing their winter food supply, while bears prepare for their winter hibernation. Fall is an excellent time to visit, watching wildlife in the Arctic as well as enjoy the Northern Lights.

Bird life expounds in the Brooks Range as many migratorybirds travel to the Arctic for their summer nesting grounds. Larger waterfowl such as Trumpeter Swans, Sand hill Cranes, Canadian Geese can be seen nesting in the Brooks Range. Smaller bird life such as the Arctic Tern which migrates each year from the tip of Chili to the Arctic can also be seen.

Caribou:

Alaska is home to nearly a million caribou in 32 herds. Caribou travel greater distances each year than any other land mammal—up to 3,000 miles. Their large, concave hooves spread wide to support them in snow and soft tundra and function as paddles when they swim. Newborn calves can walk within an hour of birth and can outrun a person within several days. When startled, caribou hop on their hind feet, emitting a scent to alert other caribou that danger may be imminent.

Dall Sheep: The best time to observe sheep is during May and June, when they descend to the snow-free slopes of lower elevations. Observe which way sheep are traveling and let them graze toward you.

Moose:  Weighing up to 1,600 pounds, moose are the largest deer in the world. They can run at speeds up to 35 mph and can swim at 6 mph for up to two hours. During the breeding season (or “rut”), males joust with one another by bringing their massive antlers together and pushing. Cows with calves can be fiercely protective; don't come between them.

Bettles Lodge

Bettles, Alaska

A great place to vacation!

Serving the Arctic traveler since 1950 ◦ Open year round

            Voice: (USA) 800-770-5111   (International) 011-907-692-5111  Fax: 907-692-5655
        P.O. Box 27  Bettles, Alaska 99726

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