The Wildlife Department confirmed that construction is underway to fence in the entire herd in Charlevoix, north of Quebec City, which is estimated at less than 20 animals.
“Enclosure helps protect caribou from predation and mortality, and they have access to ample quality food and water, all under the supervision of veterinarians,” spokeswoman Mila Roy said.
He said caribou depend on thick, old-growth forests to shield them from predators and provide the lichen they eat.
Instead, the government announced last week it was forming an “independent commission” that will hold consultations with stakeholders and citizens in regions where the caribou are found.
An environmental law group, the CQDE, said in a statement it was “extremely concerned” by the delay, which it described as “totally unjustified” given the urgency of the situation.
Jacob said he believes that by pushing back its action plan, the government is hoping to “win time” until the smaller herds die off naturally.
Both Jacob and St-Laurent said no more time is needed to figure out how to save the caribou, which they describe as one of Canada’s most studied species.