Today is the last day of deer season in Montana.
This big, healthy buck has been around a bit with his harem of two. He is gorgeous as well as vigilant – he stayed mostly in the trees while the does ventured very near the house.
Moss and lichen off fallen branches as well as directly off the trees attracted the does into the yard and within ten feet of the house.
Hope we see them again.
Personally, even though I grew up with hunters and married one, I am always glad when the season is over. They are such magnificent animals.
I have been gone so long that I almost forgot. The biggest Muley buck I ever took north of Wagner was sixteen years ago this weekend. Got a White Tail buck the following year. I haven’t hunted since then. It was about the time the kids started to fly the nest.
He’s a good looking buck and you sure got some good close-ups of him.
Yours ends and ours begins in NC…with a gun anyway!
Magnificent creature. It’s a pity we have to kill them but I hope he survives another year. And the does are beautiful, too. You’re lucky to see them so close.
To be clear on my own perspective: I am a meat eater and have enjoyed elk since being in Montana, hopefully deer and maybe antelope next year. I am not anti-hunting (for meat) at all – still, I admire the strength and grace of the critters – especially a big, healthy buck and will be happy if he made it through the season :)!
My two 14 year old grandsons each got their deer this season, but I am glad your handsome buck will live to see another year! They are beautiful creatures aren’t they!