Will deer cross a river?
 

The property I hunt is bordered by a small river, its no more than 15yds wide at its biggest point and 6ft deep at the most. I was wondering if deer would cross that in order to get to food or bedding areas. I have seen some really nice bucks on the other property and was just wondering if it would be possible that the bucks may cross the river during the rut in search of does.

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

They definately will cross the river. I was putting a stand up a few years ago near a creek about the same size during the rut and a nice 8 pointer came running through and went right through the creek. he was hot on the heels of a doe!!

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

Thats awesome!! Hope they do the same for me!

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

I've seen deer swimming accross the Mississippi river before, where it's almost a mile wide. If they'll cross that, there isn't much they won't do.

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

Yep, had one I bumped too hard while still-hunting a few years ago jump into the Mississippi and swim it. Deer are excellent swimmers.

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

It is amazing how fast deer can swim with those skinny legs

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

They will cross river or a lake just like any other animal. I live on a lake and often see deer swimming. They must cross to get to the other side.

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

absolutely they will cross the river - I have seen them crossing the Mississippi when we are duck hunting.

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

Deer use rivers as natural travel routes, and cross them all the time. They do not have to be pushed. I Hunt couple stands where they cross. You can really hear them coming, LOL

Once you learn how the deer in your are use and travel the river, you will see some pretty cool stuff.

RE: Will deer cross a river?
 

Deer will swim a lake.

We've all seen the buck swimming lake Erie pictures.

We've all seen the buck swimming out in the ocean rescued.

Deer are great swimmers, I wouldn't say they love water but they sure don't mind it. ;)