Do Blacktail Deer Prefer Open Fields or Dense Cover?

Habitat Preference

Blacktail deer in Oregon tend to inhabit areas with dense cover such as young forests, shrublands, and wetlands. These areas provide them with protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. Dense cover also offers them ideal bedding sites, often consisting of thick underbrush and vegetation.

Food Sources

While dense cover is preferred for bedding and protection, blacktail deer will occasionally venture into open fields in search of food. They are herbivores and feed on a variety of plants including grasses, forbs, and shrubs. In Oregon, they tend to focus on areas with high concentrations of food sources such as alfalfa fields, clover, and other legumes.

Hunting Techniques

When hunting blacktail deer, it’s essential to consider their habitat preference. Hunters can set up stands near areas with dense cover, such as edges between forests and open fields. This allows them to ambush deer as they come out of the dense cover to feed in the open fields. A good spot to set up a stand is at least 100 yards away from a food source, and ideally positioned to take advantage of a thermal or food source funnel.