Predation

I have always been of the mindset that coyotes kill a large portion of fawns each year.  Many people agree with me, however some studies are showing that they are a deer population control mechanism.  They are stating that the greatest limiting factor on a deer herd is food and its availability.  Therefore, would it be safe to say that if you raise your food sources, your herd should grow as well despite the predators in the area?  I believe this to be an interesting discussion question.  Do you guys feel predators can deplete a deer herd, or primarily just kill the weak?

Feeding Programs

Alabama allowed for year round feeding programs this year. The law basically stated that people may keep feed out during the season, but nobody could hunt within sight of it or within 100 yards of it.  The law is not intended for you to put bait out and sit on a trail going to the bait, it is meant for those who are on a protein regimen.  Many people reported deer early in the season, and then the deer went missing.  The same went for our hunting property.  The deer showed up recently and are back on the move all over.  It is my theory that many clubs around the area waited till season to start their "feeding" programs.  If so, they abused the new law, punishing those that did not use the feed as an attractant.  If the state decides to make baiting legal, then so be it.  Until then, how will they regulate the feeding programs?  Next season should be interesting. Please feel free to leave comments and civil debate.

Carbon Synergy Review

Carbon Synergy is a company that uses activated carbon with Silver for scent absorption and bacterial destruction.  I decided to test the product in an area that wind is known to swirl, and it was during early bow season here in Alabama.  I had a doe see me and circle all the way around me to the primary wind direction. She stomped snorted and bucked around, then circled back around without ever speeding up.  I feel confident that she never smelled me.  I had a four point then come directly downwind of me, from a trail I did not expect him.  He stayed on a direct path feeding on acorns and never looked toward me. This was my most obvious instance all season where I know without a doubt Carbon Synergy saved me from being busted.  Keep in mind, I did treat my breath with toothpaste and baking soda. I will break down the ways I used the product this year, with constant results.

• First I used it as a soak. I simply mixed it in a tub and soaked my clothes in it, hanging them out to dry.  I feel the drying effect was key to removing all odors from the clothing.  The sun naturally removes odors as well.
• I also poured powder directly into my sealed clothing bags and shook them up, leaving them in the bag until I reached the woods. 
• I used it to freshen my boots after every hunt. I sprinkled it inside and shook them up.
• I mixed it in a spray bottle and carried it with me in the woods. I freshened up once I settled into my stand to try and cover any scent I generated from walking in. 
• I also used it as eye black to visually cover my skin, but it also blocked my order from that region of my body. 

Pros: The system is easy to use.  It has a nice measurement on the side that tells you how much to mix with water. It is very efficient, and works well.
Cons: It may have caused me to have an allergy attack the first time I used it as eye black, and it will get on things, but you should understand carbon is black as is.(note: The owner of Carbon Synergy messaged me and informed me that it is not recommended to put Carbon Synergy near your eyes or nose, they have excellent customer service and are great folks.)
Tips: Fluff the bottle of powder so that you know how much you really have. Still play the wind as nothing is full proof. I believe this was the first season I can recall not having any deer far down wind of me running off blowing. I was busted by a deer or two this season, but they usually were able to see my silhouette.
You can view more information on their site here. Carbon Synergy

Blogging on hunting and outdoors in general.

My name is Jeremy and I am from Demopolis, Alabama.  I will blog more on the products, devices, and management aspects of hunting.  I believe it is more about the journey than the result when it comes to being an avid outdoor lover.  Please check in regularly for updates, and feel free to ask questions.