The middle of winter can be either feast or famine for the hunter, depending on what species you're after. In general the metabolisms of all deer species will have slowed right down and the'll be in survival mode.

Red Deer

This can be  lean time in many places in both islands - unless you are a pig or a duck hunter!  The deer are in 'go slow' mode an they have yarded up for winter.  The key place to hunt at this time of year are the mid-level, northerly facing slopes.  They get the most sun; they are sheltered from the southerlies and are high enough off teh valley floor not to hold the cold air.  Look for sunny, sheltered little gully heads with plenty of feed.  Broadleaf is a favourite at this time of year.

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