Space Use and Seasonal Movements of Wild Forest Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus fennicus (Lönnb. 1909)) in the Republic of Karelia

The results of studying the space use and seasonal movements of the Topozero territorial group of wild forest reindeer females in the Republic of Karelia are presented. Telemetry (GPS-collars) was used to assess the movements of the wild forest reindeer. Individual variations were noted in seasonal movements: two individuals were relatively sedentary, whereas the third moved over long distances during the year, with the distance between the extreme locations amounting to more than 70 km. The timing of the start of seasonal migrations varied between years. The use of the same summer habitats in different years was revealed, but the territories of the rut and winter pastures were different for the same animals. Movements of animals over fairly long distances have been noted, which is probably associated with the disturbance factor on the part of predators and/or humans.