How to Track Red Stags After the Shot?

Following the Blood Trail

When tracking a red stag, it’s crucial to follow the blood trail as soon as possible. This involves moving quickly and quietly through the terrain, paying attention to any signs of blood, such as droplets on leaves or splatters on rocks. The average blood trail for a shot red stag is about 100-200 yards before it becomes intermittent or stops. To increase your chances of success, it’s essential to keep the wound as clean as possible, which means avoiding any areas with dense undergrowth or thick vegetation that can conceal the blood trail.

Assessing the Wound

Once you’ve located the stag, it’s essential to assess the wound to determine if it’s a kill or a wound that requires tracking. A shot to the brain or heart is usually fatal, but a shot to the lungs or liver can result in a slower death. If the stag is still moving or shows signs of life, you’ll need to track it further, taking note of any changes in its behavior or the direction it’s moving.

Tracking Techniques

When tracking a red stag, it’s essential to use the right techniques to follow the animal’s movement. This involves looking for signs of movement, such as disturbed vegetation or broken branches, and checking for any scat or urine marks that can indicate the stag’s direction. It’s also essential to consider the stag’s habitat and behavior, taking note of any areas with good cover or escape routes. Experienced trackers use a combination of these techniques to follow the stag and bring it to a humane end.