Combating Deer Senses
Deer Hunting Tips:
Whitetails use several resources when it comes to survival. They have speed, agility, and the ability to blend into cover. But they mostly use their abilities to see movements, hear and distinguish sounds, and a superior smelling nose to avoid predators. In order to have any chance at success, a hunter needs to take a few steps toward combating deer senses.
Step One: Sight
In order to reduce the chance of being seen, hunters need to limit their movements to slow and methodical. Deer are able to detect movements within a wide range of sight. Even if they are not looking directly at an object. They also are able to notice out of place objects, which is why they often will look up at hunters in a stand. If the hunter remains still, the deer may not become alarmed.
This is also when the use of camouflage comes into play. Proper concealment is a must. The hunter should use a camouflage pattern that matches and blends in with the terrain to be hunted. Other wise, they will stick out and be detected by deer. This is a changing process throughout the hunting season.
Step Two: Sound
Deer are constantly rotating their ears and listening for any sounds that are perceived as danger. Any unusual sound, especially those not normally heard in nature, will cause alarm in deer. This may cause the deer to flee or simply stand motionless until the danger is confirmed.
Hunters should try to avoid any unnecessary sounds. Any metal objects used in the field need to be used quietly to avoid detection. Always check equipment for loose bolts or any squeaky parts. Use caution while walking to avoid loud sounds.
Step Three: Smell
Ultimately the sense of smell will determine what a deer does or does not do. Deer are constantly checking for any scents that are considered a danger. Human odor is at the top of the list. If they smell the hunter, the hunt is over, period.
The hunter must take precautions to avoid being detected. The use of human odor masking scent is a requirement. This starts before entering the woods. Anything to be used in the field needs to be descented.
So use these deer hunting tips for combating deer senses to gain an advantage while hunting. Make the effort and take extra steps to avoid being detected.
