Cry Out For Fall
When most migrating birds have left the Norwegian mountains behind, it is because Fall is approaching quickly. A beautiful time to be out here and enjoy the vibrant yellow, orange and red colours.
The small introduced population of muskoxen in Dovrefjell is now experiencing a very busy season. When the muskox bulls have fought out their claim to a harem in late August, the mating season is going into the reproductional phase. It is mainly now in September that mating takes place. Muskox bulls are rather impatient while waiting to spread their genes, and if they finally can, they do so repeatedly.
The ones that are not tolerated in these fall harems anymore are older or younger bulls that did not compete well enough to form their own harem. These can be found roaming alone or in small bachelor groups until the next rutting season. The winter proves a hard challenge for all muskoxen out in the mountains and the Arctic. This is the time when it becomes very important that they have fed enough during the productive season, because they will lose a substantial part of their body weight to survive until Spring. For many calves, the first winter might be a hard challenge, and especially if they lose their mother, it will probably also be their last.
I am a licensed guide for the Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjell National Park. On a tailor-made tour with me, you will be able to experience the Muskoxen, but also Moose, the European Golden Plover, and other wildlife. Visiting Dovrefjell is a good idea in nearly every season! I am a nature photographer and biologist, and will take well considered choices to not disturb any wildlife, especially the wild reindeer. Day-Trips from Trondheim are possible.