Thermal drones are replacing trail cameras to unravel deer movement mysteries that have baffled hunters for decades. Motion sensor cameras capture just a tiny segment of a deer’s movement, while thermal drones can watch deer move through dozens of acres of woodlands and open fields. Some hunters are giving up their hunting seasons to research deer behavior and the results are remarkable and cover three areas:
Why Do Deer Orbit Bait?
If baiting is legal in your area, this will directly affect how you hunt. Drone footage shows that deer often will circle a corn pile instead of directly approaching it. Is that because they don’t know it’s there? To scent check for danger?
Where is the Best Stand Placement?
If you have a distinct food source, bait, or small food plot, where is the best place to post a stand? How does wind direction and time of day affect your stand placement?
What Food Type Outperforms All Others?
Finally, what food lures deer best? Corn, pumpkins, food plot, or other?