Whitetail deer are constantly “talking” to each other, even when they’re not making a sound. They use vocalizations, body language, and, perhaps most importantly, scent marking to communicate.
Two key elements of deer communication are rubs and scrapes. These visual and olfactory signals are like the deer version of social media, used to establish territory, show dominance, and attract potential mates.
Understanding these “posts” is crucial for hunters and anyone interested in wildlife. Recognizing and interpreting deer rub and scrape activity can provide a wealth of information about deer movement and behavior. This knowledge can translate into improved hunting strategies and a higher chance of success.
This article will delve into the purpose, types, timing, and hunting strategies associated with deer rubs and, most importantly, the scrape deer make. Consider this a comprehensive guide to understanding these essential aspects of whitetail deer behavior.
What are Deer Rubs?
Deer rubs are markings that bucks make on trees and other objects by rubbing their antlers on them. Bucks will rub their antlers against trees, saplings, and even shrubs, scraping off bark and leaving behind a visual and scent marker.
So, why do they do this?
Bucks create rubs for a few key reasons:
- Territory marking. Rubs tell other deer, “This is my area, so stay out!”
- Dominance display. A big rub can be a visual signal to other bucks, letting them know, “I’m big and strong.”
- Antler polishing. Rubbing helps bucks remove the velvet from their antlers and polish them up for mating season, also known as the rut.
Bucks also leave scent from their forehead glands on the rubs, adding another layer of information about who they are and their status.
Types of Rubs
Rubs aren’t all the same. Here are a couple of types you might see:
- Boundary rubs. These are along the edges of fields, roads, or other boundaries. They’re like saying, “This is where my property line is.”
- Random rubs. These are scattered around without any clear pattern. Maybe bucks just like to practice rubbing their antlers.
For hunters, rubs can be useful because they can reveal:
- Historical deer movement patterns
- The size and freshness of rubs, which may clue you in on the size and activity of bucks in the area
What are deer scrapes?
When deer paw at the ground, they leave markings called “scrapes.” These scrapes are usually bare patches of earth where the deer have cleared away the leaves and debris. You’ll often see a low-hanging branch above the scrape, too.
Deer scrapes serve a few purposes:
- Scent communication: Both bucks and does use scrapes as a kind of message board.
- Breeding advertisement: Bucks will pee in the scrape and leave scent from their feet to attract does.
- Information gathering: Does will also visit scrapes to leave their own scent and find out what bucks are in the neighborhood.
What are the parts of a deer scrape?
A deer scrape has two main parts: the licking branch and the ground scrape.
The licking branch is the branch hanging overhead that deer like to lick and rub their forehead on, which leaves their scent behind. It’s like a visual and olfactory beacon that draws other deer in.
The ground scrape is the bare patch of earth where deer urinate and leave scent from the glands between their toes (interdigital glands). The urine contains pheromones, which let other deer know about the deer’s reproductive status.
What kinds of deer scrapes are there?
Deer scrapes can be divided into a few types, depending on where they’re located and how often deer visit them:
- Primary scrapes: These are along well-worn deer trails and get a lot of traffic. These are the most important for hunters.
- Boundary scrapes: These are on the edges of habitats, like boundary rubs. They might mark the edge of a deer’s territory.
- Random scrapes: These are just…wherever. There’s no pattern. Maybe the deer was just feeling curious.
When are rubs and scrapes made?
The timing of rubs and scrapes shifts as the seasons change and the deer move into different phases of their mating behaviors.
Timing of Rub Activity
Bucks usually start rubbing in late summer as they shed the velvet from their antlers. Rubbing becomes more frequent as the pre-rut kicks in, with bucks marking their territory and establishing dominance.
As bucks focus on breeding, the amount of rubbing generally declines. If you’re trying to figure out how recently a buck rubbed a tree, look for freshly exposed wood and sap. Older rubs will look weathered, and the tree may have started to heal over the wound.
Timing of Scrape Activity
Scrapes start showing up during the pre-rut, as bucks get ready for breeding season. You’ll see the most scrape activity in the pre-rut and early rut, when bucks are out looking for does.
Like rubbing, scrape activity tends to drop off as bucks focus on breeding and tending to the does they’re interested in.
Keep in mind that weather can affect how much scraping you see. Deer movement typically peaks when temperatures drop to five or ten degrees below normal.
Hunting Strategies for Rubs and Scrapes During the Pre-Rut
The pre-rut is an exciting time for deer hunters. Bucks are establishing their dominance, and the woods are full of signposts like rubs and scrapes. Understanding deer behavior during this period is key to a successful hunt.
Understanding Deer Behavior During the Pre-Rut
The pre-rut is all about bucks establishing who’s boss. They’re working out the pecking order through sparring matches and marking their territory with rubs and scrapes to let other bucks know who’s in charge.
Finding the does is also essential. Does are at the center of the action during all phases of the rut, so bucks will be hanging out near doe bedding areas and where they’re feeding.
Hunting Strategies for Rubs
Finding rub lines and travel corridors is a good way to start hunting. Look for clusters of rubs along well-worn trails and in areas where deer are moving around a lot. Rub lines can tell you which way the deer are traveling and where they might be bedding down.
Set up ambushes near those rub lines, positioning yourself downwind to intercept bucks as they move through the area. Use scent control measures to minimize your scent.
Hunting Strategies for Scrapes
Focus on primary scrapes near doe bedding areas. These are the hotspots during the pre-rut. Setting up shop near primary scrapes close to where the does are bedding down is a good bet.
Scent lures and attractants can also be helpful. Use deer urine or other scent lures to lure bucks to the scrape, but be careful not to overdo it. Too much scent can spook deer.
Always pay attention to the wind direction and use scent control. Make sure the wind is in your face to prevent deer from smelling you, and use scent-eliminating sprays and clothing to keep your scent to a minimum.
Hunting Strategies for Rubs and Scrapes During the Peak Rut
The peak rut is an exciting time for deer hunters, but it can also be challenging. Bucks are laser-focused on breeding and tending does, and their behavior can be unpredictable. Here’s how to use rubs and scrapes to your advantage during this phase of the season.
Understanding Deer Behavior During the Peak Rut
During the peak rut, bucks have one thing on their minds: breeding. They’re on the prowl, trying to find does that are receptive. Once a buck finds a doe in estrus (ready to breed), he may stick with her for up to 72 hours during the breeding process.
Because bucks are following does, their movement patterns can be erratic. They might abandon their usual stomping grounds and travel miles in search of a mate. This can make it tough to pattern them, but it also creates opportunities if you know where to look.
Hunting Strategies for Rubs
During the peak rut, the best approach is to hunt near doe bedding areas and travel routes. Bucks will be drawn to these areas like moths to a flame. Think about where the does are most likely to be, and set up your stand accordingly.
Rattling and calling can also be effective during the peak rut. Rattling mimics the sound of bucks fighting, which can pique the curiosity of a dominant buck. Calling can simulate the sound of a doe in estrus, which can lure a buck in search of a mate. Use these techniques sparingly, and watch the deer’s reactions carefully. If they seem spooked, back off.
Hunting Strategies for Scrapes
Scrapes might not be as actively used during the peak rut as they are earlier in the season, but they can still be productive, especially in areas with high doe activity. Bucks may visit scrapes to check for signs of receptive does.
Consider using a buck decoy to challenge dominant bucks. Set the decoy in a realistic posture near a scrape, and use scent lures to enhance its effectiveness. This can be a great way to draw a buck into range, especially if he’s feeling territorial.
In Closing
Rubs and scrapes are the message boards of the whitetail world. They’re how bucks and does communicate, and understanding how, when, and why deer use rubs and scrapes can make a huge difference in your hunting success.
The key is to pay attention to the details. What kind of tree is being rubbed? Where are the scrapes located? What’s the timing of the rut in your area? Adapt your hunting strategy based on what the deer are telling you.
Whether you’re bow hunting or using a rifle, remember the basics: Watch deer behavior closely, and be patient. Look for patterns and preferences, and don’t give up easily. And most importantly, practice strict scent control. You don’t want your scent to spook a buck before you even see it.
By putting what you’ve learned here into practice, you’ll not only increase your chances of tagging a deer, but you’ll also deepen your understanding of these fascinating animals. And, as always, remember to hunt ethically and responsibly. Good luck out there!