I've seen deer do all of the above. This is something I've been trying to figure out for the past 5 years and I don't think there is a solid answer. They do what they feel like doing that day and go where they wanna go.
I Remember being told by 'an old wise hunter' a number of years ago that deer usually walk into the wind. When you stop to think about it, it makes no sense. In areas with predominant winds, Deer would end up walking hundreds of miles before they could return back. Deer have a great combination of olfactory, visual and auditory senses; they use all three to make sure that they are not threatened.
Mostly random. But they will circle down wind when responding to a call or if they are cautiously checking something out. Bucks will also cruise the downwind side of bedding areas during the rut. Bottom line is, there is no steadfast rule.
I agree and think it's mostly random, but it seems like for me I notice deer moving with the wind quite often. For example, I had a 10mph S. wind this AM, and all 8 of the deer Ive seen (still out) early were heading north. And it does make sense. If they're smelling and seeing into the wind, then their backside is vulnerable. If they walk with the wind, they are smelling what's behind them and seeing what's in front of them- both sides covered.
Ive seen all of the above. My land is full of hills and ridges. More times than not i have deer using ridges on the downwind side where prevailing wind meet thermals rising. This way they are picking scent from the ridge top and bottom, and an elevated view.
I agree. I've seen bucks bedding on top of the ridges with the wind blowing across their backs and watching the downwind side for trouble.
I don't think it dictates where they go, but it certainly can effect how they get there, and where they bed.
