Portal:Denmark/Selected article/Week 19, 2007



Reindeer hunting in Greenland is of great importance to the Kalaallit (Greenland Inuit) and sporting hunters, both residents and tourists. Reindeer (Caribou) are an important source of meat, and harvesting them has always played an important role in the history, culture, and traditions of the Inuit and Greenland. Controlled hunting is important for the welfare of reindeer, and the quality of life for Inuit.

In Greenland more reindeer are harvested than any other big game land mammal species. Reindeer meat is an important staple in most households, and the populace waits with great anticipation for the autumn hunting season to begin. It is an opportunity to stock up the kitchen pantry and freezer with meat for the coming season and to enjoy the adventure of the hunt.

Reindeer hunting by humans has a very long history. In Greenland, wild reindeer have been hunted as a source of food, clothing, shelter, and tools by the Inuit; the indigenous peoples that populate the Arctic and colder regions. Methods that they have employed include crossbow, bow and arrow, snares, driving, trapping pits, driving them into lakes and spearing them from kayaks, and now using hunting firearms. The entire reindeer, including fur, skin, antlers, and bones have been used. Their meat, viscera, and even stomach contents, have all been utilized as food, both raw, dried, smoked, and cooked. Today reindeer are primarily hunted by residents and tourists for their meat, but mature animals with large antlers may also be the objects of trophy hunting.

Game harvesting conditions in Greenland can be extreme, so hunters should be cautious and never underestimate the forces of nature. Greenland is large and long, with widely differing customs, regulations, and weather patterns, depending on the region and season. It is important for hunters to familiarize themselves with the local conditions, laws, and regulations before entering the wilderness. The sensitive wilderness nature should be enjoyed, respected, and protected, and hunters should "leave nothing but footprints" when leaving it.

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