Muskox

Distribution and habitat

Arctic tundra above the tree line of North America, Greenland and Asia. Reintroduced to regions that it had disappeared from historically (Alaska) and pre-historically (Russia).

Behaviour

Lives in small groups of around 5 individuals during the summer, and may join others to form herds up to 60 animals in the winter. The social hierarchy in the herd is based upon dominance. Although known as slow-moving animals, they are capable of speed and agility and often play together.

Diet

Grass, arctic willows, shrubs, moss and lichens.

Reproduction

Mating season occurs in late summer. Males fight for females, butting heads at high speeds. Dominant bulls gather up to 20 females in their harems. Gestation period lasts 8-9 months, a single calf is born. They reach sexual maturity at 3-5 years of age.

Good to know

Muskoxen have a distinctive defensive behavior as a herd. They form a tight line or a close circle. The bulls are the front line for defense against predators, while the females and calves gather behind them.

• Latin name: Ovibos moschatus
• IUCN – Red List – LC – Least Concern