Because Papa is the story’s sole narrator, the story gives no physical description of him. One can speculate that he’s an adult male and in relatively good physical condition, given that he can slip twice on the ice and still continue hunting. He’s a man who cares deeply about his family, yet he shows this care through actions rather than words.

Both Papa and Schatz struggle with communication. They share few words with each other. However, Papa’s actions reveal his obvious concern about Schatz. He calls the doctor immediately when he realizes that Schatz has a fever. He keeps a written record of Schatz’s temperature and when to give him his medicines. These are the actions of a careful and concerned parent. Though his parenting may be questionable, given that he goes hunting during Schatz’s illness, Papa may be so concerned that he needs to take his mind off it.

This hunting trip underscores Papa’s manliness. He may be Schatz’s caretaker, but he’s also a man who hunts regardless of the conditions. Although he falls on the ice, he immediately gets back up and continues his task. The hunt is challenging, and flushing out the birds is difficult, but he’s still somewhat successful.