Nanuit Itillinga
Objectifs de conservation
To protect various Arctic mammal and bird species.
Interdictions
Access to Nanuit Itillinga by anyone other than Inuit enrolled under the Nunavut Agreement is restricted, and any non-Nunavut Inuit must obtain a permit to enter the area.
Pourquoi (contexte environnemental pour la protection)
Nanuit Itillinga is home to an unusually high concentration and diversity of wildlife, despite its Arctic climate. This is because it contains extensive wetland habitat, including a large valley containing lichens, mosses and grasses. Various species of mammals are found here, inducing peary caribou (which are at risk), muskoxen, and Arctic foxes. It is also home to at least 54 species of birds, such as red knots and snow geese. Polar bears pass through the area in spring and summer, giving the area its name: Nanuit Itillinga means “polar bear pass” in Inuktitut.