jsmart, can you please enlighten me on this generation gap in regard to ethics or standards, you are referring too?

I adhere to a very high standard and ethics with regards to hunting. I honestly feel that my code of conduct is many times higher than the older type hunter you maybe referring too, which when I started was "Brown it's down type mentality". I am not referring to anyone specific on this board, i just think that the generation gap isn't all bad to the sport. I also learned many a trick and tactic from the old and wise, so know digs are intended. Since I am the bright eyed baby at 32 years old, I feel as though you maybe referring to the likes of my age and younger. I guess I really would like to know what you mean by this statement. I agree shot placemnet and knowing how to assess the situation at hand are paramount in hunting. Practice is essential in all areas, never to young or old to learn. I don't think our ideals are that far apart and maybe you weren't referring to me personally. I just would like some more info on your point or which you eluded too. thanks

As to the stag statement " well for whitetails" I believe this is untrue. Many other game they will often babysit their core group until estrus or heat comes...however the mature whitetail buck is looking to procreate as much and often as possible. He will not stay with a doe that isn't close to cycling, he will depart and find one that is and then return to her when the time is near. Whitetail bucks are very much loaners during the breeding phase, they will often run a heard of does to try and see if any are close...only to leave them if that is not the case. At the same point does don't want the bucks around, hence why they often are seen following the does and the does scattering. It is the chase phase and often confussed to be full blown rut. Like humans the females enjoy the tease or pursuit of males. While the males want and if no give they go looking in a different corner. I may be out to lunch on this one, but have never seen a buck run a herd out and then only to stay back and wait for the bang...if she is hot he will be right on her...if close he will be not far behind or maybe late on her trail. The problem lies in the patience to wait for that to happen and we only know he is near (or she is looking) by the stop and look she will give back to that dark corner of the bush.

Again this is my experience only, I haven't heard of a Stag buck in terms of Whitetails. But maybe I just learned something new today!

Have fun and good luck guys/gals.