The article recounts the ecological collapse of reindeer on St. Matthew Island, Alaska. In 1944, the U.S. Coast Guard relocated 29 reindeer to the isolated island as a food source for stranded personnel. After the Coast Guard withdrew, the reindeer population rapidly grew to over 6,000 due to lack of predators and abundant food. However, overgrazing led to resource depletion, causing a dramatic decline. By 1966, the population had plummeted to just 42 individuals, and by 1981, the last female reindeer died. The event highlights the dangers of unchecked population growth and ecosystem imbalance.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a historical ecological case study without overt ideological framing. While it discusses environmental impact, it does not take a partisan stance on policy or governance. The focus remains on scientific observation and natural processes rather than political debate.


