Thelon Wildlife Sanctuary, Wildlife sanctuary in Nunavut and Northwest Territories, Canada
Thelon Wildlife Sanctuary is a vast protected area spanning across tundra, boreal forests, and river valleys in Canada's far north. The landscape transitions from open tundra in the north to denser forest stands and wetlands toward the south.
The sanctuary was established in 1927 to save one of North America's last muskox herds from extinction. This action marked a turning point for the species, which had dwindled to barely a few hundred animals.
The land holds deep meaning for the Akilinirmiut Inuit, whose ancestors hunted and gathered here for generations in harmony with the natural cycles. Visitors walking through the sanctuary can sense this long connection between people and wildlife.
The best way to reach this area is to travel along the Thelon River, as no roads connect to the sanctuary. Visitors should be well prepared and seek local guidance, as conditions can be demanding and unpredictable.
The sanctuary contains the Thelon Oasis, an unexpected feature where thick white spruce forests survive north of where trees normally stop growing. This green pocket exists due to rare soil and climate conditions found nowhere else in the surrounding Arctic.
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