Drought May Affect Deer Size and Meat Quality This Hunting Season
As hunting season kicks off in Pennsylvania, questions are rising about how the summer’s drought might affect the size and quality of harvested deer.
While the drought has challenged wildlife, state game officials remain optimistic about this year’s hunting prospects.
Dry Weather’s Impact on Deer
Melinda Weimer, co-owner of Weimer Meats in Loyalhanna, noted a decline in meat yields and antler quality in deer brought in during archery season.
“They’re just not really yielding meat they would have in the past,” she explained, linking the change to the dry weather’s potential impact on food availability.
Joseph King, a board member of the Allegheny County Sportsmen’s League, shared a similar observation. Referring to deer he feeds with apples at home, King said, “They’re just not getting what they need.”
Summers are a crucial growth period for deer, and insufficient nutrients could leave them smaller. However, King reassures hunters: “Yeah, they’re going to be smaller, but not that much smaller.”
Deer Adapt to Drought Challenges
Despite concerns, game officials report normal harvest numbers during archery season, suggesting deer have adapted to find sufficient food and water.
Jake Wiedner, a game warden cadet, noted, “They’re able to adapt very well. We’re not seeing any impact from dry weather.”
In fall and winter, deer forage for nuts like acorns and beechnuts, turning to shrubs, leaves, and crops when other food sources dwindle. “They just learn to adjust,” said state game warden Andy Harvey.
Hunters’ Outlook for Firearms Season
This year’s firearms season begins with optimism. Last year, hunters harvested over 254,000 deer, and officials expect similar numbers this year. While the drought may make sneaking through dry woods challenging, hunters remain undeterred.
Cold, brisk weather with wind chills in the teens awaits hunters this weekend, adding a frosty challenge to the season.
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