We should ask did the deer smell something first. Did the deer hear something next. Did the deer see movement next and last did the deer see something stationary
- the least likely option. Unless the object shines or is blue ...
Agreed on the science....and of course a deers sense of smell is its primary defense mechanism.
Our problem, the science cannot tell you what a 4 1/2 yr old deer knows....that a 2 year old doesn't. I think the difference is "Reasoning". So when the 2 yr old sees a couple bushes trimmed....meh...no big deal. That 4 1/2 yr old Ks buck knows right off....and can reason enough to act on it. I haven't had the pleasure of many big buck interactions...[and the ones i've had didn't turn out well!] but the guys i know have....and those big bucks can sense when things are different.
Heck I just got back from hunting the late muley season in AZ setting on water. I had some layup shots on small bucks and one 140- 150"...and would have shot that one if I was hunting with my recurve...but i digress. Sure the does and bucks were a little wary...but they still came to water. The big bucks [170"+] would pick up that blind 100yds out [though it was incredibly brushed in] and just wouldn't come in. They would stand out there staring for 10-15 min [good cross wind]
I'm not saying these deer are rocket scientists.....but the older ones are so in tune with their environment its crazy....