living on the Barren Grounds and taking their name from that region;
the largest frequenting the Rocky Mountains west of the Mackenzie River
and known as Woodland or Mountain caribou; and the intermediate size
inhabiting the Great Northern Forest and called Woodland caribou.

In comparison with moose, wapiti, and other deer of North America, the
Woodland caribou ranks third in size. In colour its coat is of a
grayish brown with a white neck and belly. In winter the heavy growth
of neck hair really amounts to a mane. Of the three breeds, the
Woodland caribou have the smallest horns, the Barren Ground the
slenderest, while the Mountain caribou have the most massive. Record
antlers range from fifty- to sixty-inch beams, with a forty- to
fifty-inch spread, and possessing from sixty to seventy points. The
does are usually provided with small horns, and in that way they are
distinct from all other Canadian deer.

On account of its wide-spreading and concave hoofs the Woodland caribou
does not have to "yard" as other deer do in winter time, for thus
provided with natural snowshoes, the caribou can pass over the deepest
snow with little trouble. Also, throughout the year it is an extensive
traveller, and as its food is found everywhere within its wide range,
its wanderings are determined chiefly by the wind. Indeed, so great a
traveller is it that, when thoroughly alarmed, it may cover from fifty
to a hundred miles before settling down again. Rivers and lakes do not
hinder its roaming for it is a powerful and a willing swimmer. The
mating takes place in October and the calves are born in June.

The following morning while at breakfast Oo-koo-hoo discoursed upon the
game we were about to hunt: