Deer hunting is a popular sport among hunters. It is a challenging task to locate a deer and finally take it down. However, the task doesn’t end here. After taking down the deer, you need to approach it carefully. Approaching a downed deer safely is important to avoid any accidental harm to yourself and the animal. In this article, we will discuss how to approach a downed deer.
Location and Time of Day
The location where the deer has been downed is important. If the deer is downed in an open area, it is easy to approach. However, if the deer is downed in a dense forest, it can be difficult. The time of day is also important. If the deer is downed during the day, it is easier to approach. However, if the deer is downed during the night, it can be challenging.
Approaching the Downed Deer
Before approaching the downed deer, make sure that it is completely dead. If the deer is still alive, it can kick, causing harm to you. Approach the deer from behind and check if it is breathing. If it is not breathing, it is dead. If it is still breathing, wait for a few minutes until it dies naturally.
Checking for Wounds
After ensuring that the deer is dead, check for any wounds. If there are any wounds, be careful while handling the deer. If the deer is bleeding, make sure to wear gloves to avoid any risk of diseases. If the deer has a head injury, avoid touching it as it can be dangerous.
Dragging the Deer
After checking for wounds, it’s time to drag the deer. Before dragging the deer, make sure that the area is clear of any obstacles. If the deer is heavy, you can use a sled or a cart to drag it. If you don’t have a sled or a cart, get help from someone to drag the deer.
Transporting the Deer
After dragging the deer, it’s time to transport it. If you have a vehicle, you can load the deer on it. Make sure to keep the deer in a shaded area to prevent it from spoiling. If you don’t have a vehicle, you can use a backpack or a rope to carry the deer.
Cleaning the Deer
After transporting the deer, it’s time to clean it. Cleaning the deer is an important step to ensure that it is safe to eat. Wear gloves while cleaning the deer and make sure to remove all the internal organs. You can use a knife to do this. Once you have removed all the internal organs, wash the deer with cold water.
Conclusion
Approaching a downed deer is not an easy task. You need to be careful while approaching the deer to avoid any accidental harm. Check for any wounds before dragging the deer and transport it carefully. Once you have transported the deer, clean it properly to ensure that it is safe to eat.