Quick Answer
Identify areas needing hinge cutting by looking for thick, dense growth areas where deer are likely to move through, such as edges, trails, and crossing points, and observing deer behavior to pinpoint bottlenecks and high-use areas.
Understanding Deer Movement Patterns
To effectively identify areas that require hinge cutting, it is essential to understand deer movement patterns. Deer tend to follow established trails and travel through areas with minimal cover, making these areas ideal targets for hinge cutting. Observe deer behavior, and look for areas where deer frequently cross, such as game trails, field edges, and forest clearcuts.
Selecting the Right Hinge Cutting Strategy
Not all hinge cutting is created equal, and the right strategy depends on the specific deer movement patterns in your area. For example, if you have a high concentration of deer traveling through a narrow trail, a more aggressive approach may be necessary, involving cutting multiple trees to create a clear path. However, if you’re dealing with a large, open area with scattered deer activity, a more subtle approach may be more effective, involving strategic cutting to create small, scattered gaps.
Measuring and Cutting Hinges Effectively
When selecting trees for hinge cutting, look for trees that are at a 45-degree angle to the deer’s travel path, ideally with a diameter of 6-8 inches. Cut the trees at a 45-degree angle, making sure to leave a small “hinge” of bark intact to prevent the tree from toppling. Cut multiple trees at a distance of 15-20 feet to create a clear path, and space them at irregular intervals to avoid creating a “funnel” effect.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.