Mule deer summer patterns???

[fishantler]

At what point and time will mule deer abandon their summer patterns in the high country? Is it after they shed their velvet or first snow? Lets assume we're talking about Montana mule deer. Please give me your thought....

 

[Carrion Carrier]

IMO - Many mule deer bucks will be in their high backcountry hidey-holes until close to rutting time (roughly December 1st).

 

[Bambistew]

My experience hunting the HC is that they move below tree line once their food source freezes, I guess? usually about the time they shed their velvet. A good friend of mine used to hunt HC deer ever year, and did very well. His observations were the same as mine. They're still up high, but harder to find and will be a bit lower in the timber.

 

[fishantler]

Thank you for your input. Its much appreciated.