This is what I think is happing in my area.

First SLP in MI use to get little to no pressure, but around the Mid 90's that change in MI. SLP now gets a full 60% of the hunting pressure. I think we are killing to many bucks for the area, I have seen more Button bucks than in the past.

Second being we do not kill enough does, the mature does are going to(finding them)the very few mature bucks to be breed. I have read a mature doe will do this, if so this explains the lack(0 for me) sightings.

This was the first year I did not go after does, I waited, never again. Next year I plan on taking out 3-5 before the rut. I am hunting for mature does only.

Another factor is I think does are coming to heat at all different times. There is no build up like I have seen before, but more like a steady drip.

BTW this is for my area, I know yours may be different.