RE: storm and rabbit
In a way, Rita helped the whitetails by giving them access to browse in the way of downed trees. It also opened up the skyline to allow undergrowth to regenerate. You'll probably find yourself in some real thick stuff for years to come but you know where the big ones hang, in the thick stuff. As for the rabbit, I'm sure it'll get the deers attention but they will dismiss it...enjoy the entertainment.