How to Keep Deer from Being Afraid of Darting

Make Darting Deer Easier I pulled a dead doe and dead fawn out today. More EHD. Getting used to the stench of death. Darted 7. One young buck comes up for cookies. I darted him out the front door with it barely cracked open after I through him a pile of cookies. As a note for those who dart, everyone knows how difficult it can be to dart multiple times. Even others in the pen start to get nervous. I like to shoot from inside the truck with the gun propped low on the door frame in an open window. As soon as I dart I start throwing cookies. Often the darted deer comes up with the dart still hanging out to eat them. I get out with the gun while they are eating so they can see it while they are getting treats. I studied deer behavior for two masters degrees and that education included studies on many animal behaviors. I took two courses on training horses through behavior modification. Darting is a negative stimulus. Feeding cookies is a positive one. Feeding cookies after darting reinforces a positive influence that will help override the negative one. I'm getting plenty of practice but I'd like for it to be over!!!

Consulting is Satisfying

I did some consulting this week for a family planning to start a deer breeding and hunting business. We went over many issues such as pen location and design. The reason for the design to promote smooth flow when moving the deer in the breeding pens. Other issues discussed were health, behavior, death loss, fawn additions, etc. We looked at a 4-yr outlook to determine what the outcome should be based on the first year investment. Even with the realization of death losses it was wonderful to see the excitement in their eyes. I hope I will always provide an honest assessment of my client's goals but instill in them the love of working with these awesome animals.

Consulting for the Deer Industry

I offer consulting service for the deer industry. Topics include: Handling facilities Pen design Behavior How to handle deer Health EHD/BT Nutrition

Buck attitudes changing in early August

Seeing a very subtle change in attitude among my bucks at Whitetail Rack Ranch. A little more aggression and paying a little more attention to does in the other pens. They must be starting to think about what's coming up!! Our Captain Crunch will immediately go into solitary confinement when he sheds velvet. When I'm feeding him cookies I'm beginning to see the tendency for him to roll those eyes! He doesn't like me touching his antlers anymore. They are a little more aloof and not quite as good buddies now. We'll be cutting antlers off before long. Sad not to be able to watch them in their glory this winter.