Predicting White-Tail Deer Movement

There have been all kinds of studies that show when a white-tail deer is likely to have more movement and activity. Some of the things that were measured were wind direction, barometric pressure, sky conditions, temperature and wind. The two most notable experiments were temperature and wind velocity.

The temperature experiment noted that hot weather suppresses deer movement. The study showed that the hotter the temperature the less deer activity. Deer tend to lie down and seek dense shelter when it is too hot, but given a nice cold crisp day they tend to travel and have more activity. With that said you'll notice that deer are more active in the fall on colder days. There are certain points when deer become less mobile and then when the temperature gets to a certain point that all activity ceases. Deer tend to be less active during the day when it is hot and more active in the evening when it cools down. If you are having a particularly warm hunting season try to hunt in early morning before the temperature gets too hot. Charting temperature fluctuations and deer sighting movement from year to year can help you predict the movement temperatures for your particular region.

The wind velocity experiment noted a response to gusty wind force that was somewhat similar to the temperature experiment. Gusty winds take away the ability of the white-tail deer's early warning system. Winds make it impossible for them to use their ear, eyes and nose to effectively hear, see and smell. Deer tend to stay in safer areas under thick undergrowth in gusty winds. The harder the wind blows the less white-tail deer movement you'll see. So with a gusty wind day the deer will not be able to detect hunters as easily as a non -windy day. For those skillful hunters willing to brave the chill of the wind they find that the extra wind helps them find those sitting bucks without being detected.

Of course there a few other factors that trump the temperature and wind studies that include the rut and the moon and incoming weather patterns. The rut is a very powerful hormonal condition that makes deer very aggressive and causes all kinds of changes that can overcome the normal patterns that wind and temperature may encourage. If a deer is in rut then you cannot predict its movements by other factors. The moon phases and weather patterns also effect movements. If a severe storm is approaching the deer can sense the rapid drop in the barometer and will head for shelter in the deep woods where it is safe.

Many observers have noted that activity amongst white-tailed deer is greater when the moon is full. If you are aware of the phases of the moon and sun you can accurately predict when deer will be more active. There is a theory called the Solunar Theory it states the closer you are to the moon or sun, the stronger the influence on wildlife. The day of a new moon or day of a full moon has provided the best bounty. This was first noted in record catches of fish but has been applied to other wildlife such as deer.

There have been a variety of studies conducted to determine the best times to hunt deer. None of these facts standing alone can help you accurately track deer movement. All facts must be used together to estimate the best deer activity periods.

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