Caribou in British Columbia
Last updated on May 16, 2025The caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) herds found in boreal (northern) areas and mountainous, mature forests of British Columbia are important aspects of the province’s natural ecosystems and contribute to its rich biodiversity.
Unfortunately, due to significant changes that have occurred in the species’ preferred habitat over the last century, the number of caribou in British Columbia has dropped from about 40,000 animals to about 17,000, with the steepest declines occurring over the past 40 years.
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Caribou recovery
The B.C. government is committed to a long-term, comprehensive, and science-based approach to caribou recovery. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of western science and Indigenous traditional knowledge.
The B.C. government has extensive experience in caribou monitoring and management and is a leader in conducting caribou research and developing innovative management activities. With significant provincial, federal and partner investments and commitments, formalized through the Caribou Recovery Program, B.C. is dedicated to ensuring that caribou remain on the landscape now and for future generations.
Herd and geographic information
For interactive geographic information about caribou in B.C.:
- Use the Caribou in British Columbia map
For herd population estimates:
Get involved
Those living in B.C. are invited to comment on potential recovery actions through EngageBC:
News and updates
B.C. - Colorado wolf translocation - 2025
In January 2025, the B.C. government supported a cross-agency translocation of 15 wolves to Colorado from areas of central B.C. where predator reduction is occurring to support caribou recovery.
For more information:
Grants approved for 14 caribou habitat restoration projects - 2022
Supported by funding from the B.C. government and the federal government, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation approved 14 grants for new and ongoing projects to help restore caribou habitat in British Columbia.
- Access the full information bulletin
B.C. government engaged with public on caribou predator reduction - 2021
The government of B.C. engaged with the public for input on continued predator reduction to support the recovery of woodland caribou.
For more information of the results of those sessions:
The government of B.C. received input from the public on the draft Winter Motorized Recreation Management Plan - 2021
Learn more about the engagement process:
Fraser Basin Council launched the British Columbia First Nations Caribou Recovery Implementation Fund
Visit the Fraser Basin Council website for more information.