Does an old whitetail's coat become rougher with age?

Physical Changes with Aging Deer

As whitetail deer age, their coats undergo several physical changes. The once-luxurious and fine coat of a young deer becomes coarser and more brittle with age. This is due to the natural wear and tear on the hair follicles, which can lead to an increase in the diameter of the hair shafts, making them appear rougher to the touch.

Identifying Aging Deer

One way to identify aging deer is by examining the condition of their coat. Older deer often have a more rugged and worn appearance, with a greater amount of white in their coats, particularly on their faces, bellies, and inside of their ears. This is due to the natural graying process that occurs as deer age. In addition, older deer may have more noticeable wear on their teeth, which can be a good indicator of age.

Observing and Hunting Aging Deer

When hunting older deer, it’s essential to be aware of their behavior and habits. Older deer tend to be more solitary and less active than younger deer, which can make them more challenging to find. However, they also tend to have established home ranges, which can make them more predictable and easier to track. By understanding the physical and behavioral changes that occur in aging deer, hunters can increase their chances of success and harvest a mature buck.