As a hunter, you might wonder, “Where do deer go when it storms?” If you’re looking for a forest prize to take back home, experience and knowledge are crucial. If you’ve planned a deer hunting trip during a heavy rainstorm, there’s much for you to learn about when it comes to hunting down deer.
Deer hunters need proper gear and to be prepared for the climate before going out in the wild. This article focuses on how deer brave the rainfall, their survival instincts, and how to catch them!
Location of Deer During Rainfall
Be it light or heavy rain, deer use their peak survival instincts to keep themselves safe during bad weather.
If it’s light rain, deer usually aren’t affected. However, if the rain is heavier, a deer will do its best to survive by hiding in primarily thick, overgrown bushes. If it’s a bigger deer, it might opt for ridge ends or a larger tree to help protect them against harsh climate change.
Trees and ridges are also more secure than bushes because they help them stay undetected from hunters. So, if you’re out deer hunting during heavy rain, make sure to check around the ends of ridges or large, thick trees.
Do Deer Bed Down in Rain?
Deer, unlike other animals, choose to move around undetected during downpours. They don’t seek shelter right away or prioritize hiding away from predictable hunting spots.
Of course, when it’s time for them to bed down, deer tend to hide behind pine trees or rocky terrain to deter hunters and predators. Deer fur is hollow and can help them stay insulated even under bad weather like heavy rainfall.
Read More: What to Feed Deer: Know What They Love
How Do Deer Move When It Rains?
Deer are more adaptive to harsh weather conditions than we are. So, if it’s only drizzling, you can still go out for a nice deer hunting session.
Since deer are the prey in the food chain, they have acute survival instincts. Their heightened senses help them steer from predators and hunters thanks to their nimble speed and quiet movement. It can be challenging to detect a deer on the first attempt due to these conditions.
Deer, especially mature bucks, are able to move during heavy rain and withstand strong winds and harsh climates with ease. It can be difficult to follow their steps, and it can even injure you if you aren’t careful. According to experts, it’s best to follow deer into their hiding spots after the rainfall ceases.
Survival Tactics That Deer Follow
Deer eat about five times a day, so they need to leave their hiding spots for food sources. They predominantly live in wet grasslands, mountains, and forests. All of these places are prone to horrible weather conditions that can be extreme for humans. However, as we mentioned before, deer can survive these conditions with ease.
Just like most other animals, deer can sense upcoming weather conditions. By doing so, they can prepare themselves to fight through unforgiving weather conditions. They can sense storms a day in advance and gather food accordingly.
Deer purposely gather food for long periods of time, even enough for after the severe storm has ceased. However, big bucks can still graze even under heavy rain because they aren’t bothered by heavy showers. But, they do prefer dry environments and safe places in order to stay away from deer hunters and other dangerous predators.
Gear Maintenance Tips for Deer Hunters
Deer hunting sessions can be both fun and a hassle during heavy rains. You have to keep yourself and your hunting gear safe. The aim is to keep them clean and dry under all weather conditions. If this is your first time on a hunting trip, here are a few tips for gear maintenance:
- Purchase rainproof covers for your gear and clothes. They will help keep you dry and prevent you from falling sick during the hunt.
- Protective bootsare a must. They will keep your feet dry and give you better traction in mud, snow, or other unexpected weather.
- The wood stock of a hunting rifle might deteriorate and swell if exposed to water for too long. Make sure you clean and dry them daily to maintain them.
- Waterproof scope caps and wax can help keep your guns safe from liquid stains. Let’s not forget, they also add excellent polish to the weapons.
Make sure to invest in high-quality deer hunting gear with guaranteed results. Hunting needs the proper gear and equipment in order to really enjoy the experience.
Should You Hunt After the Rain?
Hunting after a heavy rain session can be promising. If you can brave the harsh weather and start your adventures after it blows off, there’s a lot in store for you.
Many inexperienced hunters see rainfall as a hindrance and decide to pack up and cancel. But, you can use the storm to your benefit since you can hunt in peace with no competition. With no other experienced hunters around, you can basically have your own hunting ground.
With less human scent in the air, you may even be able to hunt down more prey. It also helps to spot a deer first and then take your time closing in.
The rain or snow storm makes it difficult for deer to smell you, making you near-undetectable and able to trace deer movement easily. This is because water removes human scent molecules, which allows you to hunt without warning your target.
Endnote
Deer hunting season during heavy rain can be a delight if you know how to track down hiding spots and protect your gear from water damage. There’s always more to learn when it comes to hunting, especially if you enjoy thrilling and adventurous times with your friends.
When you know more about deer movement tactics, the better your experience will be in the woods!
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