How to Tell the Difference Between a a Button Buck and a Doe

When out hunting deer, it can be quite difficult to know whether the deer coming in front of you is an adult doe or a button buck. From a distance, even with binoculars you can't always see the "buttons." Here's a couple tips to consider before pulling that trigger that will help that little buck mature.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Binoculars
• Patience

1. Many times (but not always) a button buck will travel alone. Adult does will not. They travel with other deer.
2. If you are watching a group of deer enter an opening or a food plot, typically an adult deer will stand for moments to scan the area before entering it. Whereas a young buck (or fawn doe) will just dart out into the area.
3. An adult doe will have more of a rectangular body whereas the button buck body is more square and box-like.
4. An adult doe will have a longer next and snout. A young button buck will have a shortened snout and and not as lengthy a neck.
5. An adult doe also has a more rounded head between it's ears whereas the young button buck has more of a flat area between the ears.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use binoculars to completely identify your prey before shooting.
• Just be patient. We all get that thumping heart when we see the deer coming to us. A true sportsman enjoys the rush but keeps his/her full awareness.
• Stay still! If you're seeing a button buck and some other deer with it, the big buck is most likely somewhere behind waiting to see if all is clear.