Deer also prefer a forest undergoing secondary succession to a mature one. Shrubs, bushes and plants provide both food sources and hiding cover. This regenerating forest is usually very thick, making it difficult for other animals to find the deer; however, the deer travel through it with ease. If hunting in such an area, a tree stands near a small clearing or on a powerline right-of-way might be productive.
Waterways offer another place to ambush deer. One person relates that deer use streams and valley floors like humans use interstates—to get somewhere fast! The biological need for water can be satisfied in many ways. Early in the season, daily trips to ponds or streams may be expected, but late in the season, a small hidden spring will give a big buck all the water he will need.
Deer usually stay within a home range of approximately one square mile or 640 acres. However, during the rut, all bets are off. During this breeding season, bucks can travel great distances to find does that are ready to breed, and may be found several miles from where they were seen yesterday. It is the time of year when they don’t care if hunters or cars are in the vicinity, they are only intent on breeding.