Mule deer are a species of deer that live in North America. They are known for their large ears, which are used to help them hear predators and other dangers. Mule deer are also known for their ability to jump high and far, which helps them escape from predators.
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Calling in a Giant Mule Deer
Mule deer are one of the most popular game animals in North America, and for good reason. They’re relatively easy to hunt, they provide excellent table fare, and they’re just plain fun to pursue. But one question that often comes up is “Do calls work on mule deer?”
The answer, like with most things in hunting, is “it depends.” Calling can be effective on mule deer if done correctly and at the right time. But there are also a lot of factors that can affect whether or not calling will work on any given day.
Let’s take a look at some of those factors.
Female Mule Deer Sounds
If you’ve ever been out hiking or camping in the western United States, chances are you’ve come across a mule deer. Mule deer are one of the most common deer species in North America, and they’re easily recognizable by their large ears and long tails.
Mule deer are relatively quiet animals, but they do make a few different sounds.
The most common sound that mule deer make is a soft grunt or snort. This sound is usually made when the deer is startled or alarmed, and it’s thought to be a way of communicating with other deer in the area.
Female mule deer also produce a bleat-like sound during the breeding season.
This sound is used to attract male deer, and it’s often described as sounding like a lamb bleating.
If you ever find yourself near a mule deer, take some time to listen for these different sounds. It’s an opportunity to hear an animal that is normally quite silent!
Credit: www.americanhunter.org
What Calls Work Best for Mule Deer?
Calls are an important tool for hunters trying to attract and bag mule deer. But what calls work best? The answer may depend on the situation, but in general, grunt calls and doe bleats seem to be most effective in attracting bucks.
Grunt calls imitate the sound bucks make when they are looking for does. By grunting, hunters can bring bucks into range without them ever knowing they are there. Doe bleats, on the other hand, mimic the sounds does make when they are in estrus (heat).
This gets bucks’ attention and can bring them running – sometimes right into a hunter’s waiting arms!
Of course, these aren’t the only calls that will work on mule deer. Other sounds like rattling antlers and even coyote howls can also be effective at times.
It really depends on the individual deer’s response to various sounds. Experiment with different calls until you find which ones work best in your hunting area.
Do Grunt Calls Work for Mule Deer?
There is a lot of debate surrounding the use of grunt calls for mule deer. Some hunters believe that they are effective, while others believe that they are not. The truth is, there is no clear answer.
Some studies have shown that grunt calls can be effective in attracting mule deer, while other studies have found no significant difference between calling and not calling. Ultimately, it seems that whether or not grunt calls work for mule deer depends on the individual deer and the situation.
When Should You Not Use Deer Calls?
There are a few instances when you should not use deer calls. One instance is during the rut, or breeding season. The bucks are very territorial during this time and will not respond well to calls that they perceive as a threat to their territory.
Another time when you should avoid using deer calls is if you have recently seen a buck in the area. If the buck knows you are there, he will most likely not come to your call. Lastly, if you are hunting with a group of people, it is best to only have one person calling at a time so as not to spook the deer.
Where Do You Shoot Mule Deer in Call the Wild?
When it comes to mule deer, there are a few key places that you should focus on when trying to take one down. The first is the neck, which is a very vulnerable spot. The second is just behind the front leg, where the heart and lungs are located.
And lastly, the brain is always a good target. However, with such a small target, it can be difficult to hit, so aim for the eyes if you can.
Conclusion
For many hunters, the rut is the most exciting time of year. The bucks are on their feet more, chasing does and competing with other bucks for mates. This can make them easier to pattern and hunt.
But what about calling? Does it work on mule deer?
The answer is yes…and no.
Mule deer are notoriously difficult to call in, but it’s not impossible. You just have to know when and how to use your calls.
During the rut, bucks are actively looking for does.
They will respond to doe calls, especially if they think there is a hot doe in heat nearby. But you have to be careful not to over-call or the buck will get suspicious and won’t come in.
Grunt calls can also work well during the rut.
Bucks use grunts as a way to communicate with other bucks and let them know their location. If you grunt at a buck, he may come over to see who is challenging him for dominance. Just be sure not to grunt too much or you’ll spook him off!
