Preventing Wounding Loss
Because caribou are herd animals, they often move in groups. Before considering a shot, make a positive gender identification of the caribou, and then keep track of the animal until it is away from the group. Confirm there are no other caribou behind the animal you are targeting – it may be helpful to count legs to be sure. Wait until the animal is broadside or quartering away and aim for the heart and/or lungs. Choosing to shoot the animal in the neck is risky, and may result in wounding the animal, especially when trying to judge distance over open terrain.
Make a positive identification on the caribou you are targeting. From left to right: young bull; cow; bull; cow.
The same group. The cow is in the middle and a calf follows the cow (far left). The bull (right) has turned broadside. This is a good time to consider a shot.
A close look around this mature bull reveals a cow immediately behind him, as well as another caribou behind his head further back. There are no clean shots. Wait for the bull to step clear of the group.
