Hunting in Greenland

Greenland has a dynamic culture with deep roots in its Inuit native peoples, as well as the many sports and activities related to its arctic climate including ice fishing, dog sledding, kayaking and hiking. The country's varied cultural practices are largely linked to its natural resources, which provide an ample opportunity for sport and hunting.

In the northwestern Thule area, hunting is common with larger caribou anorak game. Hunting is deeply ingrained in the Island's culture, and has been for many generations. Many individuals live off of the results of their hunting, with game such as reindeer and muskox providing sustenance to many Greenland families.

Historical evidence suggests that Inuit hunting culture is an ancient practice very much linked to the culture's way of life, and has recently caused conflicts with animal rights activists, including attempts to place the Reindeer on the World Endangered Animal list. The country adopted hunting quotas in 2006 after fierce debate, especially the limits placed on seal hunting, which previously produced skins for export.

Today, Greenland's hunting culture is at risk due to rapid changes in the Arctic climate. Estimates suggest that temperatures have risen as much as five degrees Celsius since 1950, and are expected to continue to increase. As a result, animal habitats have been affected and increasingly inhabited by parasites which previously were not song in the area - this has led hunters to have to clean their finds much more thoroughly. Traditional hunting culture has also changed with modern industrialization, which has required more of a career oriented lifestyle for traditional hunting tribes in order to afford the costs of modern living. Today, Greenland is a changing Island where ancient culture interacts with increasingly modern technology and business practices which are further modernizing the country's interaction with its abundant natural resources.