Small mammals

Small mammals exist in all ecosystems of Wapusk National Park. From arctic hare on the northern tundra, to voles in the peatlands, to the various members of the mustelid family that live in the trees of the boreal forest, these small mammals are critical parts of the ecosystem. Researchers working in the park look at the predator-prey dynamics between the small mammals and carnivores that prey on them as key indicators of ecological health.

Mustelids

In the forested southern part of Wapusk National Park, various members of the weasel family are easily found. The American marten, ermine, wolverine, fisher, river otter, least weasel and mink all call the boreal forest environment home. These mammals are both predator and prey, consuming other small mammals like lemmings and mice. In turn, they are important prey for foxes, wolves or birds of prey. Across northern Manitoba, trapping is still a common practice, and mustelids are commonly harvested by trappers.

Lemmings, mice, and squirrels

In the northern tundra and peatlands, the environment features grasses, mosses, lichens, and shrubs. In this environment, mice, squirrels and hares are some of the small mammals on the landscape. Richardson collared lemmings, which are small members in the same family as mice, live in Wapusk National Park. They feed on vegetation such as grasses, sedges and willows. While tiny, they are a favoured food source of both the arctic and red foxes that build their dens in this area of the park. Lemming and fox population dynamics follow a standard predator-prey cycle. Researchers in Wapusk are using that cycle to help understand the health of the ecosystem and the effects of climate change in the Arctic.

Hares

Arctic hare (Lepus arcticus) and snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) are the two members of the hare and rabbit family that call Wapusk home. Both turn white in the winter for camouflage, but the arctic hare is larger and has distinct black tips on its ears, which can help you tell the two species apart.

Beaver

The American beaver (Castor canadensis), one of Canada’s most iconic species, resides in the park. As the largest rodent in North America, the beaver narrowly fits into the small mammal grouping. These animals modify their environment by building dams on slow-moving rivers and creeks. The dams create ponds where they build their homes. Previously, beaver habitat was limited to areas with woody plants used for food and building material. However, climate change has created more suitable habitat over the last 40 years, resulting in beavers moving north into tundra environments, including Wapusk National Park. Historically, beavers were of great importance to the fur trade, their pelts being highly sought after to make hats back in Europe.