Calling an animal into bow range is one of the greatest bowhunting successes. Whether it’s a bull elk, strutting gobbler, or a big whitetail buck, knowing that you fooled that animal at its own game is exhilarating. Some calls, such as elk bugles and the grunt-snort-wheeze for whitetails, are dominance challenges that may be effective under certain situations; however, they will likely repel as many as they attract, perhaps even more.
The estrous bleat is made by does and therefore rarely spooks a buck, regardless of age. Even if you lure in a small buck, that act may entice a more mature buck to investigate. The estrous bleat can be made by tube-style calls as well as can styles, the latter being effortless to use and nearly foolproof. Doe bleats can be made when deer are in sight, as well as cold calling. Since the sound is very soft and does not carry far, using it frequently may increase the likelihood of success.