Quick Answer
Antelope have a distinct reaction to human scent, which can significantly impact hunting success. They are highly sensitive to the presence of humans and will often detect the scent of hunter's clothing and gear. This sensitivity can be leveraged to increase hunting effectiveness.
Understanding Antelope Scent Detection
Antelope have an impressive sense of smell, with some studies suggesting they can detect scents at concentrations as low as 1 part per million (ppm). This is equivalent to detecting a single scent molecule among a billion other molecules. To put this into perspective, the human nose can detect scents at concentrations of around 10-50 ppm.
Hunting Implications
When hunting antelope in New Mexico’s high desert, it’s essential to minimize human scent. This includes wearing clothing and gear that has been washed in unscented detergent and allowed to air dry. Avoiding strong perfumes, lotions, and soaps can also help reduce the likelihood of detection. In addition, consider using scent-free camouflage and taking regular breaks to change out of clothing that may have picked up human scent from other hunters or the environment.
Season Timing and Public Land Options
New Mexico’s antelope season typically runs from late August to early December, with the peak rutting season occurring in late August and early September. During this time, antelope are more active and vocal, making them easier to locate. Public land options in New Mexico include the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Navajo Nation, and various Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and US Forest Service (USFS) lands. Familiarize yourself with the regulations and hunting opportunities on these public lands to increase your chances of success.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.