Population and Habitat Influences on Antler Rubbing by White-Tailed Deer

Abstract
Density of white-tailed deer (Odocileus virginianus) antler rubs was estimated by late winter and early spring line transect sampling on 5 wildlife management areas in northern Georgia. Rub density varied from 183 to 580 km2. Rub density was positively related to estimates of the density of bucks ≥2.5 years old. Decreased mast production between years apparently reduced rubbing duration or intensity among bucks. Rub characteristics were similar to those reported from other locations in the whitetail's range. Rub location was influenced by habitat type, food sources, topography, and possibly social mechanisms.

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