Will deer return to an area after they’ve been alerted?

By Grant Woods,

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Question
I got busted by a deer that circled down wind of me in my stand. I never saw the deer but it blew at me and left. Will that deer be back or is that stand no good anymore

Thanks
Daniel

Daniel,

There’s some recent research by scientists at Auburn University that found deer will avoid locations where they were alerted or associated with danger.  These scientists reported that deer tended to avoid such areas for a few days or more, depending on several factors.  

Based on my observations and this research I’d stay out of that area for a few days before hunting it again.  However, remember it’s likely not all deer in the area were alerted.  It’s very possible you might have success there soon!

Enjoy creation,

grant