Okay, the second rut

Here in Texas the second rut is essentially bucks chasing hot does that come into estrous later than normal. My understanding is that could be a matter of days or weeks. I have 2-3 does on my property that do this and they all seem to be on the same cycle at about 3 weeks later. That cycle is done here or very close to being done.

Knowing the feeding, bedding characteristics of those does would help but I know that's harder info. to gather hunting public land.

TX_RDXguy, great information.

Actually, I just found a bedding area for does. So, feel like I'm in the game. I jumped two out their beds the other day as I was walking in at 12pm. Slowly, I'm putting the pieces together.

Hunt the edges of the doe bedding area or areas where you know does are moving/feeding. The 2nd rut generally takes place about 28 days after the main rut and in our area is hit and miss as to how much rutting action you will see. I saw very little this year but did post pics here of one big 8 on a hot doe that I passed on. Anytime I see a doe this time of year that is not in a group with others I am alert and looking for a following buck.
That said I hunted this morning and had 5 different bucks come in and saw no does at all. The largest was a 1 1/2 yo 3 point. The others were all small spikes.

Yesterday afternoon on one of my state land spots, I saw what appeared to be a buck chasing two does. They were at least 80 yards away, so it was difficult to observe what actually was happening but that's what I assume was going on.

I don't think bucks know when all the does come out of heat nor do I believe they think in a 2-3 weeks it starts up again. I personally think they stay on the hunt for a month or so or until they eventually loose interest from lack of estrus does. Ive seen in mid Febuary where bucks tear up the woods with fresh pawings and our main rut is early November. I believe that is mostly due to frustrations and not estrus does that late in the winter. We never see that small of yearlings in the latter part of our deer seasons from does coming in heat and being bred that late in the year. JMO......