Twas the Night Before Christmas
鈥楾was the night before Christmas and up in dark skies
Millions of stars were twinkling and dazzling the eyes
Of the many people who came from far and near,
To relax in Jasper with friends and good cheer.
Soon inside we鈥檒l go to lay snug in our beds,
While dreams of adventures to come fill our heads.
Should we go skiing or hiking, skating on ice,
Snowshoeing, shopping, maybe a spa would be nice?
There is so much to do it is hard to decide,
Perhaps for tomorrow we鈥檒l all go for a ride.
We can look for wildlife about in the snow,
And mountains are wondrous wherever you go.
There might be elk or bighorn sheep by the road,
And there are tracks leading through the woods where it snowed.
Despite winter cold, animals can still be found.
It is only a few that sleep under the ground.
In winter when grizzly and black bears are snoring,
Other predators are still out exploring.
Cougars and pine marten, lynx and coyotes,
And wolves following roads and trails through the trees.
The prey in the valley like deer and snowshoe hare,
Watch out for them lurking, they must always be aware.
But high in the mountains, where deep snow lies around,
Conditions are harsh and few predators found.
That is why caribou, in the alpine do stay,
Winter thick snow keeps the predators away.
They feed on lichens buried under the snow
And walk on hooves like snowshoes wherever they go.
This year new actions for caribou help keep,
Trails from packing down snow that is fluffy and deep.
For trails can mean trouble if by wolves they are found
And our hope is to keep caribou safe and sound.
Why think about caribou at Christmas you ask?
Pulling Santa鈥檚 sleigh is always the reindeers鈥� task.
Well caribou can play any reindeer game
鈥楥ause they are the same species no matter what name.
But for two of four Jasper herds numbers are low.
Just five Maligne caribou are out in the snow.
And just like the reindeer that pull Santa鈥檚 sleigh,
Only eight Brazeau 鈥榖ou are down south Jasper way.
The other two herds might have extras to share,
If Santa came calling in need of a spare.
And we hope that it gets even better with change
To address the five threats they face throughout their range.
There are more than just caribou tales in this park
Stories of Species at Risk and skies that are dark.
Of rescues, of fire and veg. restoration,
Wildlife, avalanche and cave exploration.
And at this time of year we think of them all,
For this special place there鈥檚 no part that is small.
Planners, plumbers, painters and carpenters too,
Snowplow drivers, info staff and even you.
Whether mentioned or not, staff, friend or volunteer,
We want to thank you for all that you鈥檝e done through this year.
Our best wishes go out to those near and those far
Peace and joy to all of you wherever you are.
Open House at Jasper Park Information Centre
When was the last time you were in the park information centre? This facility isn鈥檛 just for visitors. Community members are not only welcome, but encouraged to come in for the latest information, maps and new recreation guides.
Come and enjoy your local national historic site. Please join Jasper National Park superintendent and park staff on Thursday, Dec. 19 for an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Enjoy live music, hot chocolate, snacks and kids crafts. Bring your camera and family for a photo in front of the beautifully decorated old fireplace.
