The upcoming rut is considered one of the annual highlights for hunters, alongside the driven hunt season. During this special phase of the hunting season, hunters use the rutting period of the roe deer to attract bucks by mimicking the bleating of does. This bleating serves to signal that the females are ready to mate. For those who master the art of calling, the rut offers the opportunity for successful hunting. Here are the essential details summarized:
When exactly is the rutting period for roe deer?
The rutting period for roe deer usually extends from late July to mid-August. In hunting terminology, this time is also referred to as the rut. Historically, hunters used a beech leaf or a blade of grass to imitate the bleating of receptive does to attract the bucks. Nowadays, hunters mostly use a special instrument known as a caller, which effectively mimics these sounds.
When is the best time to call?
Although roe deer are typically active in the early morning hours and during twilight, their behavior changes significantly during the rut – bucks can appear at any time of the day. However, many experienced hunters swear by the midday hours between 10 AM and 2 PM, especially in forested areas where bucks are particularly active at this time. In open fields, the weather plays a crucial role: intense midday heat can cause the animals to shift their activities to the cooler evening hours or even into the night, making hunting more difficult.
The ideal weather for calling
Generally, cool, rainy days as well as prolonged, muggy summer heat are not conducive to hunting success, as bucks tend to drive does at night. The best conditions for calling occur after a period of bad weather, when sunny days follow that are pleasantly warm but not too hot.
How to call correctly?
There are many different approaches and opinions when it comes to calling. Some hunters insist on a precise sequence of meticulously practiced bleating melodies, while others believe that even the squeak of an old bicycle is enough to attract a hot buck.
However, there is a general consensus on the following bleating sequences:
- Doe bleat: A timid bleat of a solitary doe aimed at attracting a buck.
- Distress bleat: This bleat is emitted by a doe trying to get rid of an unsatisfactory buck. The goal is to attract a stronger buck that will drive away the current suitor and take its place. This bleat should be performed emphatically, as it signals a sense of urgency.
- Fawn bleat: A very high bleat that attracts does that are no longer receptive. If a buck is nearby, it will follow the doe.
These techniques require practice and skill to apply successfully and can significantly increase the chances of success in calling.
Identifying and Shooting During the Rut
During the rut, it is common for a buck to suddenly appear right in front of the hunter. Therefore, it is crucial to be prepared and able to identify the buck without drawing attention through noticeable movements, such as raising binoculars. Also, bringing the rifle to aim should be done calmly and as slowly as in slow motion.
For hunters sitting at ground level, which is particularly recommended since the calling sounds from a high seat can confuse bucks, it is important to think in advance about shooting sectors, distances, and the bullet catch. The situation can develop quickly once the buck remains in shooting position. Additionally, good camouflage is advantageous to remain unnoticed and thus maintain the best chances for a successful shot.
The most popular rifles for buck hunting:
More exciting reports on calling
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 – Calling: When the Bucks Jump
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