The reason why deer that live in similar climates go into rut at different times has always eluded wildlife biologists. I have always theorized it was because deer that rut very late (late December and early January) are more native to southern climates, while deer in the South that rut in early November originate from northern deer that were restocked decades ago.

This study might answer the question.

Deer Genetic Mapping


"Some people will never like you because your spirit irritates their demons."