Originally Posted by 4evrhtn

Depends on where they are shot where they end up. A vital shot such as liver or other organ will result in death faster thus they are usually found in an area where they feel safer just to escape the immediate danger. A deer who has been gut shot will do the same but alot of times doesn't die within hours. With a belly ache they would likely go to a water source to drink to soothe the upset stomach and fight dehydration much like we would. Then they could hold tight until death because of the pain caused by every step they take. I believe any deer with the time to make it toward water will eventually get there and most likely die there.