Antlers and Drought

[de novo]

Any data on how a prolonged drought in the Midwest affects antler growth during the months of June, July, and August?

The area where I will be hunting received 0.22 inches in June, 1.41 inches in July, and 0.50 inches through August 12th. The largest single day rainfall total recorded was 0.37 inches.

Reports are the beans and corn are terrible but they don't contribute much to antler growth.

Just curious what to expect this fall?

 

[BSK]

From what I'm hearing, antler development has been significantly reduced. Not only are some saying development is down about 20% from normal, but I've also heard several from IL and Plains States that mature bucks are very "clean" with no kickers or non-typical points (reducing gross scores).

However, I have also heard from areas that did get rain in late July, that antler growth exploded when they got the rains. These areas were on par to have a very poor antler year, but a few inches of rain caused bucks to put on a surge in growth that nearly made up for the lack of growth in June and early July.

 

[Hollar Hunter]

Do you think there was any affect in growth for TN when we experienced are dry spell. I know we have had a fair bit of rain lately to make up for it?

 

[de novo]

That's not what I was wanting to hear. 20% reduction means a buck with 150 potential becomes a 120. That will definitely lower expectations.

I"ll be running cameras through September so maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised.

Would the deer that roam along the river systems fare better nutritionally than say deer that did not have access to this?

 

[BSK]

Would the deer that roam along the river systems fare better nutritionally than say deer that did not have access to this?

I would suspect so.

 

[BigSatt]

Novocaine, the bean VINES are looking good based on the reports I'm hearing. The actual beans may not produce very much. Are beans planted close to where you are hunting?....lol.

 

[de novo]

Novocaine, the bean VINES are looking good based on the reports I'm hearing. The actual beans may not produce very much. Are beans planted close to where you are hunting?....lol.

Yep, beans everywhere!

I will actually use the drought to my advantage. If I luck out and get one I'll hold him way out in front for the picture and add 20% to his score. I won't feel like I'm even lying this time. :grin: