Reindeer Population Dynamics on St Matthew Island

The video explores the mystery of the reindeer die-off on St Matthew Island. Initially, the reindeer population thrived after being introduced in 1944, but by 1965, most had died. Dr. David Kleene investigated and found that the reindeer had overgrazed the island, leading to starvation. The absence of predators allowed the population to grow unchecked, ultimately destroying their habitat. The study highlights the importance of natural checks in maintaining ecological balance.

What was the initial expectation for the reindeer herd on St Matthew Island?

• They would migrate to nearby islands.

• They would struggle to survive due to harsh conditions.

• They would grow quickly due to abundant food and lack of predators.

• They would be hunted by local predators.

How did the reindeer population initially grow on St Matthew Island?

• Because of a government breeding program.

• In the absence of predators and with abundant food.

• Due to the introduction of new food sources by humans.

• Through natural migration from nearby islands.

What challenge did Dr. David Kleene face when trying to reach St Matthew Island?

• Severe weather conditions preventing travel.

• Opposition from local authorities.

• Difficulty in arranging transportation to the remote island.

• Lack of funding for the expedition.

What was the state of the reindeer herd when Kleene first visited the island?

• The herd was being hunted by predators.

• The herd was small and struggling.

• The herd was large and healthy.

• The herd was already in decline.

What was a significant observation made by Kleene upon his arrival on the island?

• The reindeer were migrating to another island.

• The absence of calves among the reindeer.

• The island was lush with vegetation.

• The presence of numerous predators.

What did Kleene rule out as a cause of the reindeer die-off?

• Predators

• Severe weather

• Starvation

• Overpopulation

What evidence suggested that the reindeer had starved to death?

• Presence of predators on the island.

• Lack of disease in the herd.

• Absence of fat in the bone marrow.

• High number of calves born.

What was the primary reason for the reindeer's decline according to Kleene's findings?

• A sudden outbreak of disease.

• Migration to a less hospitable area.

• Overgrazing and depletion of food resources.

• Introduction of a new predator.

What lesson did Kleene and his team learn from the St Matthew Island reindeer case?

• Predators are essential for maintaining balance in ecosystems.

• Human intervention is always beneficial for wildlife.

• Reindeer can survive without natural checks.

• Overpopulation does not affect animal health.

What natural factors usually keep animal populations in check?

• Seasonal changes and food scarcity.

• Migration and habitat destruction.

• Predators, parasites, and diseases.

• Climate change and human intervention.