That's a cool story.
When a bunch of biologists/researchers happen to be at the same place, usually a scientific conference or hunting show, they tend to gather and tell stories, or mention some the crazy ideas they have. Many years ago, before GPS collars became common, I was telling other reseachers about the strange patterns I would see in "buck appearances" on long-term trail-camera censuses, in that, "new" bucks would appear in bunches, and at repeated times of year. I mentioned that I was beginning to believe deer have very unique but traditional seasonal ranges inside of their total annual range. It wasn't until GPS-collars became commonplace that this was confirmed. Some deer DO have very distinct but traditional seasonal/rut ranges.
In some of the areas I hunt a 3.5 year old 150" deer isn't uncommon, but still I've never photographed a deer that would go much over 170" and I've followed a few of those 3.5s for several years. I just wish I could combine that trait with the habitat/soil quality/whatever it is in regions like the Midwest where bucks continue growing as a commonplace trend until there 6.5-7.5
he's not as big I looked again. Mine doesn't have the mass. that being said. G2's appear to be around 12" and G3s aren't far behind. here's a pic. IDK how old he is. I am assuming it is the 2.5 year Old I let walk last year. the second pic was this morning on a different camera. Cant see his antlers well, but you can see his body better.
Possible. An individual's genetics certainly plays a role.
It's going to be hard to match areas of the country with 9 foot deep topsoil.
