Hunting and nature photography require proper concealment, and the rewards are well worth the work.
By DAVID A. BROWN
Published March 26, 2006
She knew someone was watching her, but it was too late.
An hour of predawn setup and I was head-to-toe in camouflage, surrounded by a small blind. Locked and loaded, patient and persistent, I was in position.
I had several targets of opportunity this morning, but my primary mark was a pretty, young gal who frequented the area. I knew where she lived. I knew her routine. This was the day to get the job done.
A cool breeze swirled through the forest like the specter of fate. Sunrise cast its gilded beams across my field of fire. Light at my back, I was nearly invisible.
Perfect to my plan, she appeared just where I thought she would. A little too far for a clean shot, I watched my mark's every movement. I could tell she was nervous.
She stepped into range. There was no turning back.
I drew in a deep breath, slowly released it and squeezed. Got her!
I fired again. Another hit.
Sadistic sniper? Naw, she never felt a thing - really, nothing.
For those who watch way too much television, you're not going to see me on America's Most Wanted . I was shooting a Nikon 6006 with a telephoto lens and "she" was just a sweet little whitetail doe out for a morning munch.
Unless this cloven-hoofed cutie picked up today's Times, she'll never know the fame her breakfast stroll brought her. It would probably offend her anyway.
You see, critters don't like seeing humans in their hood. They like it even less when they suddenly realize that you've snuck up on them. And, of course, the pinnacle of habitat intrusion is when you just blend in so well that they don't notice you - at least not until you've taken your shot.
For hunting or photography, you'll do well by grabbing a spot of concealment and watching who walks into view.
BUILD A BLIND
Premade, collapsible blinds are available through hunting outfitters and those who do this a lot often build permanent structures (on private land). But on public ground, simple, temporary blinds are easily assembled.
In its simplest form, a blind can consist of creatively stacked branches and palmetto fronds. This can work, but animals know their habitat and unnatural conglomerations may arouse suspicion.
For a basic lean-to blind, start by lashing a tarp to nearby trees at a diagonal angle. Natural browns or forest green will work, but a camouflage print tarp is best. With this and all cammo, try to match patterns to indigenous vegetation, at least in color.
For your shooting side, erect a row of stakes, along which you will hang camouflage fabric made of burlap or light mesh. Stakes can be indigenous branches or wooden dowel rods painted in cammo patterns. Stakes with whittled points drive easier into the ground.
Leave gaps at either end for entrance and exit. (When sharing a blind, gaps on both sides will eliminate unnecessary shuffling in cramped quarters.) If you'd rather forego the stakes, you can drape the cammo fabric over your tarp, however, slippage will remain a concern - especially on windy days. You'll also need to cut a shooting hole if you hang the fabric.
Range-finding binoculars are helpful in judging your shot, but a simple monocular golf tee range finder will work.
COMFORT AND SAFETY
Consider the confines of a blind and any bulky, noisy gear. Once you get set, stay set. That can mean long periods in uncomfortable positions, so either take a proactive approach to sitting posture or tough it out. Folding camp stools are helpful, but a log will suffice.
Be sure and check your area - and any logs you use - for insects. Use a flash light for predawn setup, but make sure nothing is going to crawl where it shouldn't crawl. Bugs have a tendency of doing so just as your trophy shot walks into range.
Sunscreen and bug repellent are a given.
Scents from either can compromise your position if your quarry gets a whiff, so take a down-wind position. That's easier said than done, as animals walk where they want. But with scouting, you can usually figure out where the animals take cover, where the come to eat and drink and where to best position your blind.
Know the weather and prepare adequately.
It's always a good idea to carry some type of knife for cutting tie-down ropes, carving stake points and harvesting limbs and palmetto fronds. A hunting knife with a serrated back is good, but multi-tools with knife, saw blade, screwdrivers, etc., offer optimal versatility in compact form.
Hiding in the forest takes thought and effort, but the results are well worth the work. Whether you're shooting for the table or shooting for your photo album, a proper blind is your best friend.
