Originally Posted by goodman_hunter
I think genetics, and since thats what matt said. I'd imagigine thats right. But the other factors should still be considered because things like weather affect deer movement.

what I'd like to know from matt, NH, or any others is. Do the bucks just play off the does or are they preprogramed as well. Are they like us, and there ready whenever the does are ready or are they like the red fox and only produce testosterone at a certain time? And would deer esterous trick them into thinking the rut has started early?


I can't fully answer your question because I don't know. Bucks go through hormonal changes seasonally that cause or initiate antler casting, regrowth, shedding of velvet, and ultimately hard core battles to the death and breeding rights. From coast to coast, with minor variations, the shedding and regrowth of antlers takes place about the same time, regardless of breeding periods. Bucks just stay together in bachelor groups a little longer in areas with later breeding, but I do believe they are "ready" as soon as does in the area begin to go into estrous. A buck with hard antler will breed a hot doe no matter when she comes in.