We are all probably becoming witnesses to the rutting behavior of the Whitetail deer if you spend anytime at all in timber, or field,at this time of year.
This young buck seemed intent on making an impression on the young doe that led the way...The doe appeared to be around 1 year old, there was one fawn following in close proximity. I would put the buck between 1 1/2 and 2 years.
In reading over at Huntingnet.com I discovered why his antler development isn't really very impressive at this point. They say that his bone structure and body mass is getting most of his energy right now. Antler mass becomes more impressive when the whitetail buck reaches 4 years old and beyond.
However, I would like to keep an eye out for him in a year or two to see how this little guy will mature.
Friday, November 14, 2008
OH Deer!
We are all probably becoming witnesses to the rutting behavior of the Whitetail deer if you spend anytime at all in timber, or field,at this time of year.
This young buck seemed intent on making an impression on the young doe that led the way...The doe appeared to be around 1 year old, there was one fawn following in close proximity. I would put the buck between 1 1/2 and 2 years.
In reading over at Huntingnet.com I discovered why his antler development isn't really very impressive at this point. They say that his bone structure and body mass is getting most of his energy right now. Antler mass becomes more impressive when the whitetail buck reaches 4 years old and beyond.
However, I would like to keep an eye out for him in a year or two to see how this little guy will mature.
Doggone it - the animal kingdom just doesn't put us males in a good light. Would be interesting to follow this guy's maturity through the years...would be tempting to put his backstraps on the table, too, though!
ReplyDeleteTom Sorenson - Ya know this guy just might not make it to the next season. I am sure he probably will find a place on someone's table one day.
ReplyDeleteThat little cul-de-sac I have posted about has become a very popular haven. Not very far from where this picture was taken.
I'm with Tom. Those backstraps look good.
ReplyDeleteCory Glauner - Will just have to see how things go when shotgun season finally arrives here in three weeks.
ReplyDeleteShotgun season opened today in the pouring rain. Husband didn't see anything but did hear a few gunshots.
ReplyDeleteWindyridge - Good hunting to your husband when the weather improves.
ReplyDeleteYes, I know some guys are so driven to bring home the venison they will stay out in all kinds of weather.
Last year, here we had freezing rain on opening day of shotgun. I changed locations a couple of times before slipping and sliding back into the house. ;)
I hope he makes it through deer season.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great picture. That is definitely a reoccurring site this time of year.
ReplyDeleteDebo Hobo - Only time will tell his fate.
ReplyDeleteSimply Outdoors - It is a pretty good picture except I would have rather caught a big buck paying attention to the ladies.
There have been a couple of bucks, with really inferior rack development, hanging close by, that have good body mass, which I would like to try to eliminate.
I hope he shows up next season for you...nice looking buck in your own backyard! Thanks for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteMarian Love Phillips - I need to get out without Sadie so I can do some observing. She thinks these four legged critters were put here for her entertainment.
ReplyDeleteWe will see if this guy sees another season or not...