Imagine the possibility of knowing exactly when deer will start the pre-rut phase each year and, even better, when the chasing phase commences. If we could pinpoint an exact time, it would sure help us figure out the best time to take time off of work.
Sure, there are ways we can predict a general time based on several factors such as moon phase or daytime temperatures. But what if you knew the exact day?
Well, I’ve got some good and bad news. First the bad: This article will not divulge how to accomplish such a feat. The ability to predict the rut with such precision involves no practical methodology.
However, the idea is theoretically possible … if you had some sort of space-age gizmo to scan a buck and discover its precise hormone levels throughout the year.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE TOPIC
In whitetails, hormones are secreted by various glands in the body. These chemicals affect everything from the antler growing cycle to breeding behavior.
Hormones either directly or indirectly affect countless biological
