RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

Yep. And I was surprised to find out just how small these areas are....and how small they become as he ages. I was also intrigued when they said it could "shift"....even just a hundred yds or so in one direction from year to year.

Makes me think we'd better know where they live....and know damn well.....if we think we're gonna kill a really old deer.

Or...catch him chasing tail.;)

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

The really old and mature bucks will not show their face if they suspect that something is even slightly out of wack. They'll remain hidden until after dark.I've seen big old bucks abandon a hot doe because he felt something wasn't right.

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

I couldn't agree more! I think a bucks core area might be bigger then one thinks though.

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

i think 3.5 is mature, but i think a 4.5 is much smarter than a 3.5. just more experience. same concept as humans if you ask me

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

Imo, the jump in intelligence, wood savvy, or whatever you choose to call it is exponential. I don't consider a 3.5 a mature deer.

This is just one of many anectdotal observations I have witnessed over the years that has caused me to form this opinion.

A few years ago, I targeted a 4.5 to fill my buck tag with. I came close on two occassions, but never could get the guy out of the brush. He always sensed something wasn't right and never presented a shot.

On the last day of the season, I am set up in funnel between a bedding area and wheat field and with about 15 minutes of season left, here he comes but following a 3.5 yo buck. It was very still and quiet.

As they approach my 30 yard window and I start to draw back, the old deer "senses" or hears the drawing of the bow and jumps through his skin and in the blink of an eye he is gone. The younger deer just stands there giving me the perfect broadside shot not even aware of what is going on.

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

I'm one of them too Jack that thinks 4.5 is a much more of a mature deer then a 3.5 year old as well because of there excellent intelligence or extra sense they seem to gain at that age. I have a hard time considering 3.5 mature as well. Everyone has there opinions though and many have good points to back either side of the argument.

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

So did you shoot him..?? The 3.5 yr. old.

RE: 3.5 to 4.5 years old
 

No, I didn't. I thought about it but I had already killed several does and had plenty of meat so I decided tolet him grow.

Did I see him next year? Not that I am aware of. But of course by then he was a 4.5yo and was waaay too smart for me by then.:D