It seemed like a good idea at the time

[kerick]

Well, unofficially the state bird. The dead caribou part has been the possible explanation when no other cause can be found. I've seen video of animals that take off running just to get away from the cloud of tormentors.

[Rick Lowe]

Maybe they ran themselves to death...  shows that Humans aren't the only pursuit predator...

[Rheged]

I've been waiting for a comment from UK based whiffers about the code name and job description of the spy!

[Joe C-P]

The mosquito is considered the Alaskan state bird. Caribou have been known to die of blood loss and shock.

I thought that was ticks?

Mossies are also the unofficial state bird of New Jersey, hence the annual Mosquitocon that I miss every year for a different reason despite it being under an hour drive for me.

[kerick]

Deer and even buffalo are suffering from ticks. Winters have not been cold enough lately to kill them off.