Is it just me or do you have problems getting a feel for the age of summer bucks? They have those skinny long necks with no swelling. And a lot of times they look really fat because of all the food available now. I just have a hard time putting an age on summer deer. Much easier for me after they fill out in the fall.
Agree John. Actually to me they look fairly skinny yet In mid to late June so that right there throws me off. To me until It's mid July or so I can't get a good read on a bucks age body wise. Jays post on here with his buck on his trail cam was a perfect example.
yup, the testosterone starts flowing after they shed their velvet, which packs on all the muscle and gives the big boys that buff look, not to mention they add 25% more body weight or more during June-Oct
I'm with ya on this one JM. Unless I have history with a deer, or you can get a really good look at them from the side to see their hindquarters, it's very tough to put an age to a summer buck. I usually just enjoy looking at their racks instead. :D
Totally agree. It's very hard to determine unless you have their history. If you can see how their back hips align with their front it helps or if the brisket is extremely saggy but all in all it's very tough. I just look at the rack and think to myself if that guy is 20 yards out am I passing or pulling back.
The best way to age them is to jump on them, wrestle them to the ground, pour some dental alginate into thier mouths and then age the casting. That's the way I would do it. Or I'd just not care.
John your not alone, tough for me to. Im pretty confident picking out 3.5 or better at least by body size and rack size but beyond that,,, nota. and Christine, LMAO
