Here is what is currently happening in our woods with male deer- bucks. As I stated in an earlier post many dead deer are along the sides of major highways and back roads. It has been reported the reasoning behind this increase is the hunters. Unfortunately, that is not true.
This week, male deer are in the prime “rut” season. That time of year when male deer “lock down” with does for two to three days. In essence, the females are finally in heat and ready to breed with mature bucks.
The time leading up to this week, male deer spar (as seen in picture) and fight for their claim for dominance over the does. This picture was taken by my husband this past weekend. These two bucks are sparring since they are not mature.
Sparring can lead to fighting because of the testosterone levels are peaking. The bucks have been chasing the does and as a result many, and I mean many, deer are being struck and killed by vehicles along our roadways.
In January, some does will come into heat creating another frenzy of hormones with the male deer. The bucks will go through another rut season at that time.
Be careful on the roads!