Sabrina and Junior Hunt were taken by surprise on Saturday in Labrador West when what seemed like a pile of wood suddenly revealed itself to be a rare sight. The couple, en route to their cabin on Shabougamou Lake near Labrador City, spotted a muskox during their boat ride.
Describing the encounter, Sabrina mentioned that at first glance, the muskox appeared big and black. However, as they approached, they noticed it was actually moving. A video captured by Junior Hunt shows the muskox strolling along the shoreline as the couple cruised by on the water, affording them a closer look from about 30 feet away.
Sabrina marveled at the majestic sight, noting how the muskox leisurely moved with its fur swaying like a magical grass skirt. While muskox are typically found in Arctic tundra, sightings in Labrador are rare, with occasional reports over the years. The Hunts speculated that the muskox might have migrated from northern Quebec herds, particularly the Nain area, where they are more commonly seen.
Following the sighting, the Hunts informed the Department of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands, who expressed surprise at the report, commending the couple for capturing clear images and video of the muskox. The department confirmed the sighting as an extraordinary event that extended beyond the animal’s usual habitat range.
For a glimpse of the muskox sighting in Labrador West, watch the video above.