io6 NEWFOUNDLAND CARIBOU 



In the chapter on Migration, there is a more or less 

 complete account of the conditions which govern the 

 animals, so I shall not go into details of the state of affairs 

 which prevails during that season. It has been seen that 

 towards the latter part of October the northern Caribou begin 

 their journey southward, and that they follow certain definite 

 leads or paths. Along these leads the hunter takes his stand, 

 selecting, of course, one which seems to be much used. 

 If possible, his position should command an extensive view ; 

 then all the approaching herds may be scrutinised with a field- 

 glass before they are too near. They walk at such a rapid 

 rate that this must be done quickly. Each stag is carefully 

 examined to see what is the size of the horns he carries, and 

 whether they meet the requirements of the hunter. All of 

 this is done from behind a screen of firs or spruce, which 

 the Newfoundlander calls a " gaze," If all goes well, the 

 desirable stag comes along among his does — his place is 

 usually about the middle of the line, for they go more or 

 less in single file — he is not very alert, but relies on the 

 does to keep a sharp look-out and guide him past all dangers 

 in safety. Everything depends on the wind in this style of 

 hunting, and if the gaze is not placed well down wind 

 of the leads there will be little chance of success. The 

 greatest care must also be taken to avoid crossing the leads 

 in front of the ambush. Many a good chance has been lost 

 by not paying attention to this precaution. Men have 

 watched a herd approach until it was almost within range, 

 when suddenly, without any apparent reason, the animals 

 have taken fright and bolted before a shot could be fired. 

 But if care has been taken in choosing a suitable position, 

 and the leads have not been defiled by the scent of man, 

 the Caribou come on without hesitation or suspicion. The 

 hunter, if he be a novice, usually becomes wildly excited as 



