The Top Ten Myths of Deer Hunting
In talking with hunters all over the US, I have found that even some great hunters still hold on to common myths of deer hunting. In this article I would like to expose what I consider to be the top ten myths of deer hunting. Myth #1
Big bucks roam frequently roam. Truth #1
Big bucks have a home territory that they usually stay in. They may roam some during the rut in search of does in estrus. Myth#2
Bucks bed in the thickest cover. Truth #2
Bucks will bed in thick cover but they will also bed in thin cover on hills and ridges where they can view approaching predators Myth #3
Finding frequent scrapes close together means there is a big buck in the area. Truth #3
This is most likely the work of a younger buck that is showing off his prowess. A mature buck will make big scrapes but not as many as a 1 to 2 year old. Myth #4 and #5
Big bucks don't walk in doe trails. Bucks follow behind does to avoid danger. Truth #4 and #5
Big bucks normally don't walk in doe trails except during rutting season. A dominant buck will walk a doe trail and behind does when he is following a doe in estrus. Myth #6
A full moon is bad for hunting. Truth #6
Scientific research has found that the second full moon after the fall equinox starts the rutting season in central and northern states. Myth #7
Spooked deer run for miles. Truth #7
While deer can run 35 - 40 mph, they will run for only a couple of hundred yards when frightened. Myth #8
The rut lasts only a few days. Truth #8
Does come into estrus individually. Does that do not breed during their first estrus of the season will enter into estrus again in about a month. Myth #9
The size of a buck's antlers indicates his age. Truth #9
While antler size usually increases with age, the age of a buck cannot be determined by the size of his antlers. Antler size and number of points varies with the individual based on genetics and nutrition. Myth #10
There's no need to stay out hunting in the middle of the day because the deer are resting. Truth #10
Especially under the pressure of the hunting season, deer (including bucks) will be on the move all day. I hope you enjoyed the Top 10 Myths of Deer Hunting!
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