Chapter 7: Shot Placement & Recovery Techniques
Approaching Downed Game

When approaching downed game, use extreme caution. The animal may appear to be dead but actually is not.

• Approach the animal from its rear. If the animal is still alive and jumps as you approach, you don’t want to be in front of it.
• Stop at a reasonable distance from the animal.
  • Observe its rib cage. If the chest is heaving, the animal is still alive.
  • If you can’t detect rib cage movement, check the animal’s eyes—the eyes of a dead animal are usually open.
  • Some hunters use a stick or bow tip to prod the rear of the animal to see if there is a response.
• If the animal is still alive, back off and take a careful finishing shot.
• Don’t pose or handle your animal for photographs or begin field dressing until you are positive it’s dead.
• Once you have determined that the animal is dead, immediately attach the proper tag or identification according to state or provincial regulations.

Approach downed game from behind. It can be dangerous to be in front of animals if they are startled.