What Signs Indicate That Game is Nearby Despite High Winds?

Reading the Wind-Blown Landscape

High winds can mask game tracks and scat, but they can also reveal them. When the wind blows strongly, it can lift loose leaves and snow off the ground, exposing hidden game signs. Look for areas where the wind has blown away vegetation, revealing a patch of bare earth. These areas are often where game has passed through, and the wind has blown away the cover. Pay attention to the direction of the wind and the direction it’s coming from. If the wind is blowing in a certain direction, it’s likely that game is heading in the opposite direction.

Identifying Distressed Bird Behavior

Birds are often more attuned to changes in their environment than humans are. When game is near, birds can become agitated and begin to act erratically. In high winds, birds may be blown off course and become disoriented. Watch for birds that are flying low to the ground or are struggling to stay aloft. These birds may be reacting to the presence of game. Pay attention to the type of birds and their behavior. Some birds, like crows and ravens, are known to be attracted to carrion and may be reacting to the presence of dead game.

Tracking in Wind-Blown Conditions

When tracking game in high winds, it’s essential to be aware of the wind direction and speed. The wind can blow away tracks, but it can also create new ones. Look for tracks that are blown away from the direction of travel, and pay attention to the shape and size of the tracks. Wind-blown tracks can be more pronounced than usual, and the shape of the track may be distorted. Use these signs to your advantage and look for areas where the wind has blown away the cover, revealing the game’s path.