by Derrick |
Last Updated: January 22, 2022 Table of Contents
Introduction
Some people believe that the presence of cows will scare away deer, while others believe that the two species can peacefully coexist. What is your opinion?
The debate over whether cows affect deer hunting has been going on for many years. Some hunters have reported seeing no effect on their hunting when there are cattle in the area, while others have seen a decrease in deer sightings.
Some studies have shown that most cattle farmers tend to plant crops near their farms instead of planting them directly adjacent to the forest, where they are more likely to be eaten by white-tailed deer.
Overall, if I had to summarize if cows affect deer hunting, I would say it isn’t an issue in most cases, but pay attention to the areas you hunt and observe for yourself as it could vary between regions.
Why The Debate Over Whether Cows Affect Deer Hunting?
Individuals interested in hunting usually fall into two different camps. There are casual hunters who like getting out to the woods, spending time with friends, and hoping they get a deer (not concerned about the size, etc.).
While other hunters are out to score the perfect buck with a certain trophy aspect.
Depending on which side of the coin you fall on may impact your opinion that cows’ presence affects deer hunting.
If you are a serious hunter, you likely won’t hunt right on top of an active farm near a field with cows in it.
However, if you are a casual hunter and want to get out to the woods with some buddies, the cows may not matter so much, but your first couple hunts, pay attention to how they affect your hunting and keep that in mind for future hunts.
Can Cows and Deer Peacefully Coexist?
There is no one answer to this question – it depends on the individual situation. Some people believe that cows and deer can live together peacefully, while others believe that the presence of cows will scare away deer. Ultimately, it is up to the individual hunter to decide if they feel comfortable hunting in an area with cows.
It will often depend on how long cows have been in a particular pasture; if they have been in the area for a decent amount of time, the deer and other wild game likely have become used to them.
Whereas if the cattle have newly been introduced to an area, deer may become spooked by them and move to a new location without as much activity.
In some cases, hunters will be able to hunt in fields near cattle with little worry that they will interfere with their hunting; just pay attention to how they may affect your hunts the first couple times you go out there so you can adjust accordingly.
My Opinion On This Topic?
In my personal opinion, I would have no reservations about hunting near livestock in regards to fear it would impact deer being present. I am a hunter seeking a decent-sized deer that puts meat in the freezer and is not so worried about finding the perfect buck that is more of a trophy consideration.
Hunting Near Cows or Other Livestock – What You Need To Know
If you are hunting near a farm with livestock, you should keep a few things in mind. First, try to avoid hunting directly on top of the farm. Instead, hunt near the edges of the property.
Second, be aware of where the cows are grazing. If they are grazing near the edge of the forest, that is where you are most likely to see deer.
Third, be aware of how the presence of cows affects your hunting. Some hunters have reported seeing no effect on their hunting when there are cattle in the area, while others have seen a decrease in deer sightings.
Fourth, if you are hunting near a farm with livestock, always ask permission from the farmer before you hunt on his land.
In Summary
There is no clear answer when it comes to whether cows scare away deer or not. Some people believe that the two species can peacefully coexist, while others believe that the presence of cows will scare away deer. Studies have been conducted on this topic, but they have been inconclusive. What do you think?