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Genetics or Injury??

Discussion in 'Whitetail Deer Hunting' started by OKbowhunter, Aug 19, 2009.

  1. OKbowhunter

    OKbowhunter Die Hard Bowhunter

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    Is there any real way of knowing whether a buck's deformed rack is caused by a genetical issue or just an injury?

    I had a few encounters with a buck last season that had one side that was basically one large spike. I had a few shot oppurtunities at him, but I wasn't sure if he would be normal next year and I DID know there were bigger deer in the area. So, I let him walk, the times he walked by my stand.

    Anyone care to take a guess?

    [​IMG]
     
    OKbowhunter, Aug 19, 2009
    #1
  3. Siman/OH

    Siman/OH Legendary Woodsman

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    I would say genetics on that one. We have alot of deer around here like that who don't have injuries. The ones i have seen with an injury have extremely non-typical racks.
     
    Siman/OH, Aug 19, 2009
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  4. Fitz

    Fitz Legendary Woodsman

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    From what I've learned around hear I'd say genetic... I believe it's called the ROB gene:D
     
    Fitz, Aug 19, 2009
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  5. Christine

    Christine Grizzled Veteran

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    Kill him and do a full necropsy. :)
     
    Christine, Aug 19, 2009
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  6. 20yards

    20yards Newb

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    I would go with genetics on this one or maybe he went through a bad winter.
     
    20yards, Aug 31, 2009
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  7. jmbuckhunter

    jmbuckhunter Grizzled Veteran

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    Does he walk with a noticable limp? I had one last year that had a very similar rack and he limped on the opposite side rear leg.

    I'm going with injury.
     
    jmbuckhunter, Aug 31, 2009
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  8. Rob / PA

    Rob / PA Grizzled Veteran

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    That's what I was thinking! :D Some call it, Robitis.
     
    Rob / PA, Aug 31, 2009
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