Author Topic: Moon's effect on Elk and Mule Deer? (Read 1170 times)

Deke · « **on:** March 12, 2003, 07:00:57 AM »

This is for the lunar experts. I am interested in knowing your educated opinions and/or experiences as to moon cycles and how they effect male/female rut/daytime activity. The species I am most interested in are Mule Deer and Elk in Colorado Mtns.

Deke.

alpini · « **Reply #1 on:** March 12, 2003, 11:48:17 AM »

I'm no expert but I know it's a hard hunt when there's a full moon out. They seem to feed all night and rest up during the day. To me that means a lot of walking and busting brush to kick them up, for mule deer around here anyways. Hard hunt for me.
Clayton

Tony D · « **Reply #2 on:** March 13, 2003, 08:19:24 AM »

I've heard that deer feed all night with a full moon, but I've also heard they feed all night, regardless of the moon illumination. Deer, especially when pressured tend to be nocturnal anyway.

BowElkDwn · « **Reply #3 on:** March 16, 2003, 08:21:48 AM »

I have noticed that elk seem to bed much earlier in the morning when the moon is full and come out later at night. I enjoy it either way though. When they are bugling and cows are coming into heat you can get them fired up no matter what the moon is doing. The more time you can spend in the woods the better chance you have of harvesting one.
BowElkDwn