Caribou Hunts

Caribou, also known as Reindeer, are found in many parts of the world. They are indigenous to Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, Russia, Mongolia and northern China north of the 50th latitude. In North America, they are located in Alaska, Canada and the northern United States from Washington to Maine.

Depending on the sex, Caribou can weight anywhere from 150 lbs up to 600+ lbs for a large male. Both male and female Caribou have horns, although the males horns are far larger and more pronounced. Caribou shed their horns each year and grow a completely new set. As the horns drop off in late summer, it's important to plan and time a hunt prior to this time period.

Leading a migratory lifestyle, Caribou can travel as much as 5,000 kilometers a year. Migration herds can number in the thousands during the spring and fall. During the winter, Caribou travel to forested areas to forage under the snow. By spring, groups leave their winter grounds to go to the calving grounds.

Caribou mate from late September or October to early November. Males with full sets of horns will battle for access to females. Two males will lock each other’s antlers together and try to push each other away. The most dominant males can collect as many as 15-20 females to mate with. A male will stop eating during this time and lose much of its body reserves. Calves may be born the following May or June. By 45 days the calves are able to graze and forage but continue suckling until the following fall and become independent from their mothers.

Caribou are large, hearty animals that will require an appropriately sized high power rifle to bring down. They are also a target for archery enthusiasts. As most hunting will be in northern areas, make sure you plan and pack accordingly for the weather.

If you are searching for a caribou hunt, take a look at some of the hunts listed below: