To Rut, or not to Rut ... That is the question.

According to many national sources, the rut should be in full swing. But in our area, between the lack of consistent colder weather and does who seem to be carefree, I'm not sure if the rut is as far along as we would normally expect at this time of year.

You can easily find opinions on both sides of the fence regarding how much the rut period is based upon cooler weather. However, this much is true: big game like the whitetail are much more likely to be active in cool weather. In my opinion, if it's too hot for me to stalk the woods without breaking a sweat, it's too hot to expect the big boys to be out cruising around either.

Also, as I watch the does, they seem to not be worried much. Something that many folks overlook is that fact that does are not necessarily out looking for romance. Until they are actually in an estrous cycle, does are leery of any bucks that might be in the area looking for a breeding opportunity. Therefore, once the rut is in full swing, you'll most likely see does looking behind them and becoming cautious; not because of hunting pressure, but more because they are watching for horny bucks on the prowl.

I've yet to see any of this behavior. Being in thickly wooded areas with an abundance of cover, as opposed to open prairies and meadows, can sometimes make it more difficult to see a buck chasing a doe. Nonetheless, when you do see a doe who knows the rut is peaking, you can tell that they are more nervous and anxious. I've yet to see any of this.

Supposedly, the temperature around here should be taking a significant nose dive later this week, right around Thanksgiving. I'm hoping this will be the trigger that sends our big bucks into the coveted rut frenzy.

Until then, it's all just a matter of luck. Have you seen anything that indicates otherwise? Comment below!