Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming

Common Name: Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming
Scientific Name: Dicrostonyx validus

Habitat

The Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming primarily inhabits the alpine tundra of the Ogilvie Mountains in Yukon, Canada. This region is characterized by its cool climate, rocky terrain, and sparse vegetation. These lemmings tend to dwell in areas with dense moss and lichen cover, which provide both camouflage and sources of food. They are adapted to live in cold environments and can be found at elevations between 1,200 to 2,500 meters.

Physical Characteristics

The Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming averages about 15 to 20 centimeters in length, with a bushy tail contributing to its overall size. Its fur exhibits a distinctive color pattern, typically a greyish-brown with lighter underparts, which helps it blend into the rocky tundra. Notable features include its round body, short legs, and small, rounded ears. These physical adaptations not only offer protection from predators but also aid in thermoregulation.

Behavior

Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemmings are mostly nocturnal, becoming active during the cooler hours of the night. They are known for their burrowing behavior, creating extensive tunnel systems under the snow during winter. These lemmings are social animals, often found in groups, which can help enhance their chances of survival against predators. Their unique behaviors include a seasonal migration pattern where they move to lower elevations during harsh winter months.

Diet

The diet of the Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming primarily consists of various tundra vegetation, including grasses, mosses, and flowering plants. They are also known to consume roots and seeds, showcasing their herbivorous feeding habits. This lemming plays a crucial role in its environment by consuming plant material, which influences vegetation dynamics within its ecosystem.

Reproduction

The Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming has a breeding season that typically occurs from late spring to early summer. Females can produce multiple litters throughout the season, with each litter containing up to five offspring. Notable behaviors include building nests made of grass and moss, where the young are sheltered until they are old enough to venture out. Parental care is crucial in the early days, as the young require protection from predators.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming is currently listed as Vulnerable. Habitat loss due to climate change, along with predation pressures, could pose significant threats to their population stability. Continuous monitoring is essential to assess their status and implement conservation strategies.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating fact about the Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming is its ability to survive in extreme cold by employing a thick layer of fat beneath its fur. Additionally, these lemmings are part of a larger ecosystem model, acting as prey for various Arctic predators such as foxes and snowy owls. Their population dynamics can have ripple effects across their ecosystem, impacting everything from vegetation to predator population health.

Role in Ecosystem

The Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming plays a significant role in the tundra ecosystem. As herbivores, they help maintain plant diversity by grazing on various plants, which can promote healthy growth. Furthermore, they serve as a vital food source for many Arctic predators, contributing to the food web’s stability. Their burrowing activities also aerate the soil, enhancing nutrient circulation and fostering a more resilient ecosystem.