Why is the Rut easier to predict in the North than in the South??

 Rut in the North.

All the receptive Does have to concede by the end of November, no later than the middle of December, to insure that their Fawns will be born in May/June. This gives the fawns time to put on enough bodyweight to make it through the harsh winters of the North. (Peak Rut week November 8th to the 15th)

 Rut in the South.

The milder winter of the South makes it hard to predict that magic day. The breeding period is so long; it starts in December and goes through February/ March. Fawns will be born from late July into late September.   (Peak Rut weeks December 20th to January 20th)

How Long Does a Doe carry a fawn??

After a doe has conceded,  it takes 6 1/2 months (200 days) to give birth. A newborn fawn will nurse 5 times a day and will continue to nurse tell their 4 to 5 months or even older.  A fawn will have up to 40 white spots. Staying hidden is the fawns only defense against predators. They’re very alert and their Momma Doe isn’t for away at all times.

Hunting the Rut… 

     The Rut is every hunter’s favorite time of the year to hunt. It can be exciting, and it can be heart breaking. During the peak week of the Rut in your area, make the all day hunts. You have to  stay in your stand as long as you can. What triggers the Rut: long dark nights, moon Phases and the weather.