Bucks Changing Patterns before Season Opens
Filed under: Ask Grant, Hunting Tactics
I have been getting pictures of a nice mature main frame ten point starting in early August and going into early September. Now that season is about to open here in southern Missouri I have not seen him in almost two weeks. Would you stay in the same spot or try moving before next week? Paul
Paul,
Mature bucks often change their patterns during early September or when they shed their velvet. This is because of the massive hormone changes that occur this time of year. Bucks no longer are as tolerant of the presence of other bucks. In addition, the first few acorns typically begin to drop during this time. He’s still most likely in the neighborhood, but probably did change is pattern. I hope you encounter him again soon!
Growing Deer together,
Grant
