As the leaves fall and the air turns crisp, Indiana’s white-tailed deer are entering one of the most active—and misunderstood—times of their year: the rut. If you’ve noticed more deer darting across roads, strange tracks in your yard, or bucks acting a little bold, you’re not imagining things.

Welcome to November in the Midwest.

At J’s Wildlife Solutions, we believe that understanding wildlife behavior is the first step to coexisting safely and respectfully. So let’s break down what’s happening in the woods (and sometimes your backyard) this month—and what you can do about it.

What Is the Rut?

The rut is the mating season for white-tailed deer, and in Indiana, it peaks in mid-to-late November. Bucks are laser-focused on finding does, which means:

• Increased movement during daylight hours
• Less caution around roads, fences, and people
• More visible signs like rubs on trees and scrapes in the dirt
• Occasional sparring between males

It’s nature’s version of a high-stakes dating game—and it plays out in real time across our fields, forests, and neighborhoods.

Why It Matters to You

During the rut, deer are more likely to:

• Cross roads unexpectedly, especially at dawn and dusk
• Appear in suburban yards, following scent trails or seeking cover
• Cause property damage, like broken fences or trampled gardens

This is also the time of year when vehicle collisions with deer spike. In fact, Indiana consistently ranks among the top states for deer-related crashes in the fall.

Myth-Busting the Rut

Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:

Are bucks dangerous during the rut?
Not usually—but they can be unpredictable. Bucks are driven by instinct and may ignore typical fear responses. Keep your distance and never approach a deer, especially if it seems agitated.

Can I scare them off?
Yes. Motion-activated lights, noise deterrents, and scent-based repellents can help discourage deer from lingering in your yard.

Should I feed them to keep them away from roads?
No. Feeding deer can disrupt natural behavior, increase disease risk, and attract more wildlife than you bargained for.

What J’s Wildlife Solutions Recommends

Here’s how to stay safe and proactive this season:

• Drive cautiously at dawn and dusk—especially near wooded areas
• Inspect your property for signs of deer activity (rubs, droppings, trails)
• Secure fencing and gardens with deer-resistant barriers or repellents
• Call a professional if you notice injured deer, aggressive behavior, or repeated property damage

We offer seasonal property assessments and wildlife consultations to help you prepare for the rut and beyond.

Folklore Corner: The Ghost Buck of Brown County

Legend has it that a massive white buck roams the hills of Brown County each November, visible only under the full moon. Hunters say he’s uncatchable. Locals say he’s a spirit of the forest, guarding the balance between man and nature.

Whether myth or memory, the Ghost Buck reminds us that wildlife isn’t just biology—it’s story, tradition, and wonder.