Hunters are instrumental in defending your village and your people from Wolves and Bears in the early game before your first Lookout Tower.
Their primary goal is to hunt and butcher animals for Meat, Tallow and Pelts. Hunters can attack, kill and butcher the following animals:
Hunters can also be selected individually and ordered to attack a certain animal or foe. Early in the game, this is the main method of protecting villagers under attack from Wolves and Bears.
Hunters are equipped with both ranged and melee weapons and fare far better in attacking and defending against Wolves and Bears. It can be a good idea to build Roads close to their hunting grounds should they need a quick escape back to the village or should they be needed in the village should Wolves or Bears attack.