9/7/2010
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – In just a few short weeks the cool, crisp mornings will make the hot, sticky days of summer just a memory. With that in mind, sportsmen and women should note the fall hunting season is fast approaching. Now is the perfect time to hit the field and do some preseason scouting, according Curtis Taylor, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
“Exploring favorite hunting areas in September and early October can provide hunters with a wealth of valuable information,” Taylor said. “Just being in the woods during this time of year is truly a great experience as change is taking place everywhere.”
Many species of wildlife change their behavior and daily movement patterns in response to the availability of food. Hunters who take the time to search out and find abundant sources of hard and soft mast may greatly increase their odds of tagging the "big one." As oak mast begins to drop to the forest floor, bear, deer and turkeys start to spend more time in the oak forests.
During the 2009 fall season, much of the state experienced a mast failure and this caused deer and other wildlife to spend much more time feeding in clearings and food plots. Acorn mast is much more abundant this fall. Deer in particular will change their feeding patterns and almost seem to disappear, as they spend much more time back in the forest cover feeding upon the highly nutritious acorn crop. This year’s hickory crop is very scattered, and squirrels will also be found in oak stands feeding upon the abundant acorn mast.
“Fall is a beautiful time to spend a relaxing Saturday or Sunday afternoon walking the hillsides of West Virginia,” Taylor said. “These weekends also provide a great opportunity to take a youngster into the woods to learn about nature. Identifying trees, shrubs and other sources of food for wildlife is a great way to teach young sportsmen and women about wildlife, including their natural history, behavior and habitat requirements. The sign left behind by a big buck can stir the hearts of young hunters and seasoned veterans alike. Keep in mind that fall scouting can be enjoyed by the entire family. It may also pay off by helping you put the buck of your dreams above your mantle.”
Contact Information
Curtis Taylor, Wildlife Resources Section
(304) 558-2771
DNR.Wildlife@wv.gov