Who Forgot to Tell the Caribou that Drilling Threatens Them?

"Environmentalists claim that oil drilling affects the wildlife; however, if the drill sites are any indication, most animal populations are not affected or their numbers have risen. Caribou numbers, for example, grew from 3,000 at the beginning of Prudhoe development to 5,500 at the end of development. From there the population steadily increased to its present number of 20,000 animals. A group of about 100 caribou usually winters in the Prudhoe area. The oil producing companies have taken great care to elevate the pipeline or build ramps over it for caribou migration. The only snow goose colony in the United States has also steadily increased from 50 to 180 nests."

Interesting article with facts and figures about the actual drilling process. Keep in mind that it is estimated that it will take over ten years to start getting oil from ANWR. Click on post title.

Also, imagine what this photo would look like if wolves were present. Not HABITUATED WOLVES LIKE THE TWO RELEASED IN THE GILA A COUPLE OF DAYS AGO. But native wolves. The point being that native wolves are adverse to man and would avoid man and his activities. Hence oil sites have provided a safe haven for caribou. Something to think about.

Thank you to Aunt B for providing the text and photos in the following ANWR post.