Do ibex respond to calls, and which ones?

Using Calls to Attract Ibex

Ibex in New Mexico respond best to calls that are high-pitched and consist of a series of bleats or moans, typically lasting between 3-5 seconds. When using calls to attract ibex, it’s essential to mimic a female’s vocalizations, as this will often elicit a response from a nearby male. For example, the " bleat-grunt" call, consisting of a high-pitched bleat followed by a low grunt, can be effective in drawing ibex into a calling area.

Call Frequency and Volume

When calling ibex, it’s essential to maintain a consistent calling frequency and volume to avoid startling the animals. A good rule of thumb is to take 3-5 second breaks between calls, which will allow the ibex to become accustomed to the sound and respond more naturally. In terms of volume, it’s best to start with a soft call and gradually increase the volume as needed, but never shouting or making loud, sudden noises that may scare the ibex away.

Key Call Techniques

To increase the effectiveness of your calls, it’s essential to incorporate key techniques such as “calling on the wind” and “calling at dawn or dusk.” By calling on the wind, you can allow the sound to carry further and reach ibex that may be out of sight. Additionally, calling at dawn or dusk when the ibex are most active can increase your chances of attracting a responsive animal. By combining these techniques with the right calls and a consistent calling frequency, you can increase your chances of success when hunting ibex in New Mexico.