For many hunters, the leaf hunt marks one of the highlights of the hunting season. This special form of hunting, typically practiced from mid-July to early August, takes advantage of the rutting season of roe deer. The roe bucks are attracted by mimicking the bleating of the does, a sound that sexually mature females use to lure males.
Unlike buck hunting in May, it is possible to be active around noon during the leaf hunt, as the bucks are less cautious and more active during this period. The hunter uses a "Blatter," originally made from a beech leaf or grass blade, to imitate the doe's bleat and attract the rutting buck.
However, the art of leaf hunting requires precision in executing the call series. An incorrectly produced sound can scare the buck away, making it less likely to return quickly. There are various call series that can be used depending on the situation:
- Doe Bleat: A timid bleat of a solitary doe to attract a buck.
- Distress Bleat: A call with which the doe tries to shake off an unwanted suitor and summon a stronger buck.
- Fawn Bleat: This call attracts does that are no longer receptive; if a buck is nearby, he will follow the doe.
The leaf hunt is considered one of the more challenging hunting methods, as it requires practice and skill to correctly use the right bleating sounds. Compared to other game species like deer or wild boar, the venison of the roe buck is also of high quality and enjoyable even during the rutting season.
The Leaf Hunt on YouTube
More Exciting Reports on Leaf Hunting
Exciting, interesting, and informative reports on the topic of driven hunts can also be found with our premium partner, the hunting magazine Jagdzeit., for example in the article LITHUANIA – Leaf Hunt: When the Bucks Jump
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