Quick Answer
For ibex hunting in New Mexico, it's generally recommended to hunt late afternoon. This allows you to capitalize on the animals' routine and cover more ground as they move to higher ground for the night. The morning is best reserved for glassing and setting up ambushes.
Ibex Behavior and Habitat
When hunting ibex in New Mexico, it’s crucial to understand their behavior and habitat preferences. These animals are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during twilight hours, which includes late afternoon and early morning. As the sun sets, ibex will begin to move to higher elevations, typically between 10,000 to 12,000 feet, in search of food and suitable habitat. This makes late afternoon an ideal time to set up in these areas and wait for the animals to come to you.
Hunting Techniques for Late Afternoon
When hunting late afternoon, focus on setting up in areas with suitable habitat and cover, such as rocky outcroppings, canyons, and coniferous forests. Use a spotting scope to identify ibex in the distance, and then set up a comfortable shooting position, ideally within 200-300 yards of the animals. Consider using a rangefinder to accurately measure the distance and ensure a clean shot. In areas with dense vegetation, use a tree stand or a blind to get closer to the animals without being detected.
Tips for Early Morning Hunting
While late afternoon is the optimal time for hunting ibex, early morning can still be productive, especially if you’re looking for animals that have been disturbed during the night. In the early morning, ibex will often move to lower elevations in search of food, making them more accessible to hunters. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially more challenging hunting conditions. Use a thermal imaging scope to locate animals in the early morning darkness, and be prepared to move quickly and quietly to get into position.
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