Hunting was the single most important activity in days gone by. Through hunting the necessities of life were gained: food for the hunters and their families, hides for clothing and shelter, as well as bones for tools and weapons. Most animals were hunted or trapped, and had a useful purpose by fulfilling various needs of the people. The big game animals were the most important, however.

Wood buffalo, white tail deer, elk, and woodland caribou were all hunted when people had the opportunity. More commonly, and depending on their location, people hunted moose or barren ground caribou to provide for their needs. Hunting methods varied according to the season, the lay of the land and water, and the animal being pursued.

The links on the left will take you to exhibits that provide more information about moose and caribou hunting. The moose hunting exhibit focuses on a method that is used only in the fall - the practice of calling moose. The caribou exhibit discusses hunting methods and the relationship between the Dene and the barren ground caribou. The Elder Interviews tell about hunting and how the animals were used in traditional times.