The Rut Begins!

I attended a fantastic talk a week ago about the habits of whitetail deer as they approach the rut and learned a few facinating facts. First, the bucks don't begin seeking does actively until the full moon after the harvest moon. So Friday was our signal and we need to be epecially careful driving the next two weeks as they amp up their chasiing and throw caution to the wind in order to get those does. Also, they develop apox. 3" layer of hair going into fall, and if the weather is much above 50s & 60s they move VERY little in the day if at all. They don't sweat so movement or forced movement can actually kill them. They were entirely nocturnal a week or so back when it got really hot. Now thats it's cool they are on the move at all times. Bucks and does have most of their weight on in early fall but can lose up to 30 lbs chasing and running during the rut. The bucks will not rest or eat until they finish their rutting and does will only allow them to mate when they are ready. This can be a great time to watch them grunting and chasing as they are less cautious about observers. Ithaca neighborhoods and parks are the best because deer are desensitized to human presence and I've been able to even see bucks sparring for a female. What a sight! Wherever the does are there will be bucks close behind so it may be worth trying some new sit spots during this time where you know deer are plentiful. Good luck!