Hunting in the remote backcountry of Alaska is an adventure filled with surprises, and this trip was no exception. With our sights set on caribou and wolves, we braved the harsh terrain, unpredictable weather, and the sheer vastness of the wilderness. But nothing could have prepared us for what happened when we finally got our caribou—his antlers fell off!
The Journey Into the Wild
Alaska’s tundra is one of the most unforgiving yet beautiful landscapes for hunting. Caribou roam in large herds, constantly on the move, while wolves follow, waiting for an opportunity to strike. After days of glassing and covering miles of rugged ground, we finally spotted a mature bull with an impressive set of antlers. It was game on.
The Stalk and the Shot
With the wind in our favor, we made our way closer, careful not to spook the herd. The bull stood broadside at 300 yards, giving us the perfect opportunity. The rifle cracked, and the caribou dropped instantly. Excited and relieved, we moved in to admire the incredible animal, but as we grabbed his antlers to reposition him for photos, something shocking happened—they popped right off in our hands!
Why Did His Antlers Fall Off?
Caribou are unique among deer species because both males and females grow antlers. However, bulls shed theirs shortly after the rut, typically in late November or early December. This bull must have been at the very end of his cycle, and the impact of the fall or just our handling caused them to detach. It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment that left us both laughing and stunned.
Wolf Encounters
With the caribou down, we knew predators wouldn’t be far behind. Wolves are opportunistic and will often investigate gunshots, hoping for an easy meal. Not long after our successful harvest, we spotted two wolves moving across the ridgeline, likely drawn by the scent. Unfortunately, they stayed just out of range, giving us only a fleeting glimpse of these elusive predators.
A Hunt to Remember
This trip was filled with unexpected twists, from the successful caribou harvest to the shocking moment when his antlers detached. Hunting in Alaska is always an adventure, and this experience reinforced the wild unpredictability of the backcountry. Whether it’s chasing caribou, dodging wolves, or witnessing nature’s quirks firsthand, this was a hunt we’ll never forget.
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