Six Reasons Why Bucks Leave Their Sanctuaries

by
posted on November 16, 2010
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
20101116134734-6reasons_f.jpg

1.) Most crops have been removed and acorns and nutritious leaves have been eaten or buried by snow by December. Deer focus on the remaining food sources.

2.) The whitetail’s metabolism isn’t yet in its winter mode. Hunger drives all deer to find food to maintain their energy. This often forces them to feed longer than normal in open fields.

3.) Unlike fawns and females, bucks have the added burden of recovering from the rut. They’ll seldom add fat to their frame in the post-rut, but they can regain energy and stamina.

4.) Large agricultural fields often deliver the most abundant and accessible foods. Hunger can compel deer to use these visible feeding sites in daylight.

5.) When hunting pressure declines in the late-season, deer begin to feel more secure and then begin moving again at dawn and twilight, particularly within woods and other cover.

6.) Although the “second rut” is mostly hype, late-breeding action sometimes occurs. At this time of the year bucks usually find the last estrous does at or near food sources.

Latest

Christensen Arms Logo
Christensen Arms Logo

Christensen Arms Expands into .22 and .25 Creedmoor

Christensen Arms has announced the addition of .22 Creedmoor and .25 Creedmoor chamberings to three of its most popular rifle platforms: the Evoke Rifle, the Modern Precision Rifle (MPR), and the Ridgeline FFT.

Nosler Announces the Passing of Robert “Bob” Nosler

Nosler has announced with deep sadness the passing of Robert “Bob” Nosler, the company's Chairman, on September 2, 2025, at the age of 79.

The FN 5.7 as a Survival Round

This company’s Sub2000 folding carbine and compact PR57 pistol can be ideal traveling companions in this caliber.

New for 2025: Savage Arms A22 and B Series Timber Tactical

Savage Arms has unveiled the A22 and B Series Timber Tactical, an addition to its lineup of precision-engineered rimfire rifles.

Review: Bansner & Company Custom Rifle Stocks

A simple modification can make a world of difference. Whether you want the full treatment for your rifle, or just a stock to give an old friend a facelift, Bansner and Company has something to fit the bill.

2025 Reintroduction: Fiocchi Texas White Wing in Bulk Pack

Fiocchi of America has announced the return of its iconic Texas White Wing shotshell—now available in a bulk four-box field carton designed with dove hunters in mind.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.