Take your time to evaluate your target when hunting for meat or to balance ratios.
Deer hunters are becoming more aware of the need to keep buck-to-doe ratios in proper balance, and in most places that means targeting does for harvest. Many states are extending seasons for does or even creating new hunting opportunities for antlerless deer. With the goal being increased doe harvests, how can you be sure you're taking a doe and not a button buck?
While it is just about impossible to be 100% sure, there are some simple things you can do that will tip the odds dramatically in your favor.
The first and most simple thing is to take a good look at a deer before you pull the trigger. That is the safe, smart and ethical thing to do anyway. Take a good look at a deer's head and check for those tell-tale bumps.
Next, avoid taking lone deer. Even veteran hunters can't always judge the size of a solitary deer. Wait until you see several together and pick out a mature doe.
Lastly, take a look at the deer's face. A mature doe has a long face and snout; younger deer will most often have a pudgy, short look to their faces.
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