What did the Inuit Eskimos hunt?

1. Bowhead Whales: The Inuit highly valued bowhead whales for their meat, skin, and blubber. They organized community hunts and used harpoons, lances, and kayaks to harvest these massive sea mammals.

2. Beluga Whales: Belugas, also known as white whales, provided essential sources of food and resources. The Inuit hunted them for meat, skins, and oil.

3. Narwhals: Narwhals, known for their long ivory tusks, were also targets for hunting due to the value of their tusks and meat.

4. Seal Species (Ringed Seals, Bearded Seals, Harp Seals): Different seal species were a vital part of the Inuit diet and lifestyle. They hunted seals for their meat, fur, oil, and to make clothing, shelter, and tools.

5. Caribou: Caribou, a type of reindeer, was important for the Inuit. They hunted caribou during their seasonal migrations for meat, hides used in clothing and shelter, antlers for tools and weapons, and marrow for nourishment.

6. Polar Bears: Polar bears were primarily hunted for their thick, insulating fur used in constructing warm clothing. They also provided valuable meat, fat, and oil.

7. Muskoxen: Muskoxen were hunted for their meat and wool-like underfur, which is known for its exceptional warmth and insulation properties.

8. Walrus: Walruses were hunted for their meat, blubber, and ivory tusks. The tusks were used in carving intricate artistic and functional objects.

9. Birds (Ptarmigan, Geese, Ducks): Various bird species, including ptarmigans, geese, and ducks, were hunted for food and their feathers, which were utilized for making clothing, bedding, and other items.

10. Fish (Arctic Char, Salmon): Arctic char and salmon were important sources of sustenance for the Inuit. Fishing was done using nets, hooks, and spears.

11. Miscellaneous Animals: Occasionally, the Inuit also hunted other animals, such as foxes, wolves, and polar hares, for their fur and meat.

It's worth noting that the Inuit Eskimos had a deep understanding of their environment and lived in harmony with it. They took care not to overhunt, considering the long-term ecological balance and sustainability of their resources. Hunting was an integral part of their culture and survival in the challenging Arctic conditions.