Dealing with the head of a harvested deer can present several challenges, especially for those new to hunting or wildlife management. Ethical disposal is paramount, and simply abandoning the head isn't an option. Burying a deer head, while seemingly a straightforward solution, requires careful consideration to minimize environmental impact and comply with local regulations. This guide offers practical advice and addresses common concerns.
Why Bury a Deer Head?
Several reasons might lead someone to bury a deer head rather than other disposal methods:
- Convenience: In remote areas, burying may be the easiest option, particularly if transportation is difficult.
- Respect for the Animal: Some hunters feel a sense of respect for the animal by ensuring a dignified resting place.
- Avoidance of Scavengers: Burying helps prevent attracting unwanted scavengers to the area.
How to Properly Bury a Deer Head
Proper burial requires more than just digging a hole. These steps ensure responsible and effective disposal:
1. Preparation is Key:
- Location Selection: Choose a secluded area, far from water sources and trails, to prevent contamination and minimize disturbance. Check local regulations for any restrictions on burial locations.
- Tools: You'll need a shovel or post-hole digger, depending on the soil type and the size of the head. Heavy-duty gloves are also recommended.
- Sanitation: Wear gloves and eye protection to minimize contact with any bodily fluids.
2. Digging the Grave:
- Depth: Dig a hole at least three feet deep. This ensures decomposition happens below the surface and minimizes the risk of attracting scavengers. Deeper is better in areas prone to animal disturbance.
- Width: The hole should be wide enough to comfortably accommodate the deer head.
3. Burial Process:
- Placement: Carefully place the deer head in the hole.
- Backfill: Slowly backfill the hole with soil, compacting it gently as you go to prevent settling and animal disturbance.
- Concealment: Consider adding natural debris like leaves and branches to conceal the burial site. This helps prevent unwanted attention.
Important Considerations and Alternatives
- Local Regulations: Always check with your local wildlife agency or department of natural resources. They may have specific regulations regarding the disposal of deer remains. Improper disposal could lead to fines.
- Disease Prevention: While burying helps prevent the spread of disease, always practice safe handling of game animals, using gloves and washing hands thoroughly after handling any remains.
- Alternative Methods: Depending on location and access, other options exist, such as leaving the head for natural decomposition in a remote area or contacting local wildlife services for disposal.
Conclusion:
Burying a deer head can be a responsible and respectful way to dispose of the animal, but it's crucial to follow proper procedures. Prioritize safety, check local regulations, and consider alternative methods if necessary. Respectful disposal ensures ethical hunting and minimizes environmental impact. Remember, responsible hunting and wildlife management are critical to maintaining healthy ecosystems.
