I would not pick a deer hunting tree stand location based solely on deer droppings.

If you are seeing a few deer droppings and not seeing a deer trail nearby, the deer in the area could be using that particular location sporadically as they run through.

Rocky Terrain

One exception to this would be if the terrain where you find the droppings is rocky. If you are hunting over a rock outcropping, there could be plenty of deer activity in the area, but the rock’s surface will not show tracks.

If this is the case, walk small circles from where you found the deer droppings. Look for a trail leading to or from the top of the rocky area. If you can see trails leading into or away from the rock, and are seeing other deer sign like rubs or scrapes, the rock could be a good place to hunt over.

Food Plot

Another possible exception is if the droppings are in the middle of a deer food plot or feeding area. If the droppings were found in an opening or food source area, start walking the edges of the opening. Look for main trails leading to the opening.

Once you find a main trail or two, follow them back into the woods. Look at the areas the trails are leading to. If a trail leads into thick and gnarly brush, you may have found a bedding area. I don’t go into the bedding area, because I don’t want to disturb it.

Set up a deer hunting tree stand in the woods between the open field and the thick, gnarly bedding area. You could intercept a big buck as he walks from his bedding area out to feed.

Taking into consideration these possible exceptions, if you do not see any deer trails near the deer droppings consider putting your deer hunting tree stand in a better location. The droppings you see may be from a deer just passing through the area.

Good Luck and Great Hunting!

Marty Prokop
www.free-deer-hunting-tips.com