Sabrina and Junior Hunt were surprised to discover a rare sight in Labrador West over the weekend. While boating to their cabin on Shabougamou Lake, approximately 30 kilometers from Labrador City, they spotted a muskox. Initially mistaking it for a pile of wood, the massive animal came to life as they approached closer, as described by Sabrina to CBC News on Monday.
Captured on video by Junior Hunt, the muskox was seen strolling along the shoreline while the couple cruised on the water. They were able to get a closer look at the muskox from a distance of about 30 feet. Sabrina expressed awe at the sight, noting the majestic appearance of the muskox with its fur swaying like a magical grass skirt.
Although muskoxen are typically found in the Arctic tundra, there have been sporadic sightings in Labrador over the years. The Hunts speculated that the muskox may have migrated from herds in northern Quebec. The Department of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands, upon being informed of the sighting, expressed surprise at the rare occurrence and the quality of the visual evidence provided by the couple.
Acknowledging the unique nature of the sighting, the department highlighted that it exceeded the known range of the muskox. The video above captures the muskox moving through Labrador West, showcasing this extraordinary encounter.