I could not resist the temptation of letting this waist high buck (I am 5’4) come right up to me and let him lick my hand. He was in my front yard with a friend. Fences are not allowed on Big Pine Key.
In exchange for licking my hand I let him munch on my coconut trees and palms. Just like a spoiled pet!
These two bucks travelling together in non-combative companionship are the first indication I have seen since October that rutting season is ending. Soon they will be licking each other again.
His antlers are in excellent condition, the peak of the yearly cycle of losing and growing them. They also survived rutting season without damage. He is about four years old.
