Deer are crepuscular (sp)..(now that' s a big word)...meaning these animals are active at twilight. Deer who have been bedded part/most of the day wil begin to feed late in the afternoon. Once darkness has overtaken the woods, these deer may head to an apple orchard, a farmer' s field, or wherever they find their food source. They will feed and move and even bed for some time. It' s basically their time to do whatever they want. Once dawn approached, these deer will begin to feed as they move to the areas where they feel safe to bed down for part or most of the day.