In the middle of the day, deer often engage in a behavior known as “bedding.” After feeding in the early morning and late evening, deer will seek out a comfortable spot to rest and conserve energy during the day. This is particularly common when the weather is hot or during the summer months when deer are more active during the cooler parts of the day.
When choosing a bedding location, deer typically look for areas that provide both security and comfort. They prefer spots with good visibility, allowing them to keep an eye out for potential predators or threats. However, if denser cover is nearby, such as thickets or brush, deer will often gravitate towards those areas as they provide additional protection and concealment.
It is worth noting that deer are adaptable creatures and can sometimes surprise us by bedding down in relatively open areas. Even a big buck, known for its wariness and caution, may choose to plop down in seemingly exposed cover. This can be attributed to factors such as the availability of shade, a gentle breeze, or perhaps a sense of security they feel in the given location.
In my personal experiences, I have come across deer bedded in a variety of different habitats. I have seen them nestled in tall grasses, under the shade of a lone tree in a field, or even in the middle of a meadow. It is fascinating to observe how deer can find comfort and security in seemingly unconventional spots.
To summarize, during the middle of the day, deer will often bed down in the area where they have been feeding. They seek out locations that provide security, comfort, and sometimes even shade. While they may prefer denser cover if available, they can also choose relatively open areas. Ultimately, deer’s behavior is influenced by various factors, including weather conditions, available resources, and their own instincts for survival.