I have seen the smaller bucks freaking out lately as if they know something is up but cant figure it out just yet The scrapes have been picking up lately also. As for ratling, IMO I believe some areas have better responces to this from bucks based on the buck to Doe ratio. If there are plenty of Does to choose from, i dont think they feel like they have to defend to couple up with one. again, just MO. But i also dont think it hurts anything so you have nothing to loose when trying..any way good luck to ya, let us know if you have any luck with it.