Fluorescent orange is the most recognizable piece of hunting gear, and it exists for one reason: to make sure other people in the woods can see you. State wildlife agencies keep repeating the message every fall, because the habit prevents injuries.
Seen by people, overlooked by deer
The most common worry is that orange will spook game. Wildlife agencies say the concern is overblown. Deer see color differently from humans. They are essentially red-green color blind, so orange looks much like the greens many hunters already wear. Deer also do not see fine detail well, which means a motionless hunter is unlikely to be noticed even in bright clothing. When a deer does spot a hunter, the cause is usually movement or scent.
Why visibility matters
Wildlife officials point to two frequent causes of hunting accidents: a hunter moving into another hunter’s line of fire, and a hunter mistaking another person for game. Orange helps with both. It matters most in heavy cover and in the low light of early morning and late afternoon, which are also the hours when deer are most active.
Orange does not replace careful shooting. Hunters still have to positively identify a target and know what lies beyond it before firing.
Know the rules where you hunt
Requirements differ widely. Some states require a set amount of orange on the head, chest and back during firearm deer seasons, some require only a hat in certain situations, and some only encourage it. Rules often change by season and by type of land, so check the regulations for your state and the specific area you plan to hunt.
Even where orange is not required, agencies recommend it. For waterfowl and turkey hunting, where concealment matters, many suggest wearing orange while walking to and from a blind, stand or calling spot and taking it off only once you are set up.
Everyone in the woods benefits
The advice is not limited to hunters. Hikers, bird watchers and anyone else walking wooded areas during hunting season can wear orange, and many agencies suggest an orange vest or bandana for dogs, too.
Filed under: Washington DC Hunting News
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