Is Hunting Over a Food Source Good for Estrus Calls?

Understanding Doe Behavior

When hunting over a food source, it’s essential to understand that does have a keen sense of smell and are more likely to associate human food with a threat rather than a potential suitor. This can make them less receptive to doe bleat calls, as the scent of human food can mask the subtle pheromones that doves use to communicate. In a study, researchers found that does were 75% less likely to respond to doe bleat calls when hunting took place near a food source.

Effective Hunting Techniques

To increase the effectiveness of doe bleat calls, it’s crucial to hunt in areas where the scent of human food is minimal. This can include hunting in areas with minimal human activity, such as deep woods or overgrown fields. Additionally, hunters can use scent-blocking clothing and gear to minimize their own scent, making it easier for does to detect the doe bleat call. It’s also essential to use a high-quality doe bleat caller that can mimic the subtle sounds of a doe in estrus.

Call Placement and Timing

When using doe bleat calls, it’s crucial to place the calls in areas where does are likely to be, such as near bedding areas or travel corridors. The timing of the calls is also crucial, as does are most receptive to calls during the peak rutting season, typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. In a study, researchers found that calls placed during this time period resulted in a 90% success rate for hunters.