Sylvan,

I think that there is some ethical responsibility in regard to letting meat go to waste, or letting an injured animal suffer on the hunters part. I would think thateither scenario goes a bit beyond simple self-interest. If someone is operating only in self interest, then why risk a fine (or perhaps even jail in some states)for trespassing. Wouldn't it be more rational and self-servingto just let the dead/wounded animal go, then try to shoot another one that is easier, and legal,to collect.But then again, the game laws muddy things somewhat bymaking retrieval of game of great legal importance, but then, in some states, backing off when it comes to crossing property lines. But, I think that you make a really good point that the "moral burden" does/should shift to the landowner when they refuse permission to somewhat who asks, and who even offers to bring along a game warden to get a deer that has crossed property lines. Anybody who takes it that far and is denied, can go home empty handed and with a clear conscience. But, I must confess that I remain a poor sinner who will go after the deer.