Working in Minnesota natural areas daily for a couple of decades gave me the opportunity to observe, study and appreciate whitetail deer on the eve of another firearm hunting opener.
Calling upon memories of encounters with whitetails in Minnesota
Calling upon memories of whitetail encounters.
By Jim Gilbert
November 1, 2017 at 4:22PM
Three words come to mind when I think about them: resourceful, strong and graceful. This largest wild animal of southern Minnesota runs at speeds of 30 miles per hour up to a maximum of about 50. Yet a deer depends on camouflage and its keen senses to survive. Deer can jump exceedingly well, clearing objects 7 to 8 feet from a standing position. Whitetails also can swim, but they enter deep water only when pressed.
Deer are color-blind, seeing the world in monochromatic tones and shades of gray. They do not appear to see an object that doesn't move. However, the slightest movement is immediately noticed. Even a hand changing position can be enough to send the alerted deer running off to safety. Their sense of smell is keen. Studies show deer can pick up a scent up to a third of a mile away.
One scene I will never forget is watching several deer playing a game like tag. It was midwinter and several were running and sliding, zigzagging and circling, sliding and touching each other on a snow-covered frozen pond.
Jim Gilbert has taught and worked as a naturalist for 50 years.
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Jim Gilbert
None of the boat’s occupants, two adults and two juveniles, were wearing life jackets, officials said.
