Ungulates

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) differs markedly from other deer species. It has a stocky build and short but not thick legs. Its hooves are wide, rounded, and can spread widely. Both males and females grow antlers. An adult male weighs up to 150 kg and reaches a body length of up to 210 cm. The guard hairs, especially in winter, are dense and hollow inside, providing excellent insulation. The reindeer feeds on various grasses, lichens, and mushrooms. It undertakes seasonal migrations. Mating occurs from September to November. Pregnancy lasts about 7.5 months, with most calves born in May–June. Usually, 1–2 calves are born. Its main enemies are the wolf, lynx, and wolverine; newborn calves are also vulnerable to the red fox. The reindeer population in Kamchatka is estimated at 4,000–5,000 individuals. Large herds are observed in the southern part of the peninsula, on the Tolmachev Dol plateau, and along the border between the Ust-Kamchatsky and Karaginsky districts. Small groups are also found elsewhere. Hunting is allowed only by license, with about 350 animals harvested annually.

Snow sheep (Ovis nivicola) — sometimes called the "chukub" or "thinhorn sheep." Both males and females have horns. Body length is 160–170 cm, weight ranges from 60 to 130 kg. Females are significantly smaller, weighing no more than 55 kg. Coloration varies, but is most often a dirty yellowish-brown with a dark stripe along the back. Over the winter, the wool fades significantly and becomes almost white. Snow sheep feed on various plants: sedges, grasses, legumes, and others. In winter, they eat lichens on windswept slopes and dig food out from under the snow. They make seasonal migrations related to changing food conditions. Snow sheep are polygamous. Mating occurs in November–December, and pregnancy lasts about 6 months. Lambing takes place from late May to mid-June. The female gives birth to a single lamb. The total snow sheep population in Kamchatka is 5,000–6,000 individuals. They are found in the peninsula's mountain ranges and, in some places, along rocky sections of its eastern coast. The snow sheep is a valuable game animal. Hunting is permitted only by license, with an annual harvest of 40–50 animals.

Moose (Alces alces) is a large ungulate. Males can reach a body length of 290 cm, a shoulder height of up to 206 cm, and a weight of 700–800 kg. Moose feed on herbaceous plants, tree shoots, and shrubs. They are excellent swimmers and regularly visit islands located 2–3 km offshore. They undertake seasonal migrations. Mating occurs in September–October, and pregnancy lasts 8 months. In May, 1–2 calves are born. Until 1977, moose were found only in the Penzhinsky and Olyutorsky districts. In April 1977, four young moose were captured in the floodplain of the Belaya River (Penzhinsky district) and transported by helicopter to the Shchapina River in the Milkovsky district. Over the following five years, another 47 animals were captured and released into other districts. The moose population in the forests of Central Kamchatka is growing each year. Since the late 1980s, limited licensed culling of Milkovsky moose has begun. In the northern part of the region, 100–200 animals are harvested annually.