Mass-balance measurements have been renewed on two small ice caps on north-eastern Ellesmere Island. Original stake networks were established in 1972 and 1976. Since then, both ice caps have experienced significant mass losses averaging -70 to -140 kg m- 2 a-I. They have also decreased in area. The equilibrium line in this area has averaged around 1150 m for the last decade or so. 'The ice caps are remnants of former climatic conditions and are out of equilibrium with contemporary climate.