Name one common signal that can indicate a deer is nearby.

One common signal that indicates a deer is nearby is the presence of scrapes or rubs on trees. This behavior is particularly associated with male deer during the rut, or mating season, when they use their antlers to rub against trees. This action not only helps to remove velvet from their antlers but also marks their territory and communicates their presence to other deer. The scrapes may also involve pawing at the ground to leave scent markings, which can attract nearby does and deter other males. Recognizing these signs can significantly enhance a hunter's ability to locate deer in their habitat.

While tracks in the snow, sounds from rustling bushes, and birds flying away can suggest the presence of wildlife, scrapes and rubs specifically point to deer activity and behavior, making them a more reliable indicator of deer nearby.