I have a buck that just came in on camera this morning and I noticed he has a large hole in his neck in his whole face is swelled up on one side should I take him out for ethical reasons or do you think he'll live?
Hard to say. I'd probably wait to see him on the hoof to decide. See better how he's getting around. If he gimped by and looked rough, I wouldn't hesitate to stick him. If he acted no worse for wear, I'd probably pass.
By those pictures I don't see a reason to cull him because of that "wound". It doesn't look like a fresh injury, and he doesn't seem thin and the location doesn't appear to be someplace that would hamper him from eating. Unless a future picture shows that the would has gotten worse or he looks to be unhealthy I don't think any special consideration is warranted.
It's unreal some of the injuries a deer can live with. That buck looks like he'll make it. Tough as nails! This buck was cruising without a care in the world, except a hot doe.
I despise neck and head shots......seen far too many of these examples....... ....that said I actually think he may be okay. Tough to say, they're very resilient.
I'd be willing to bet that he will be just fine. Looks like just a flesh wound, not too deep. These animals are tougher than most give them credit for.
