Pennsylvania Hunter-Trapper Education Course Practice Exam

When approaching a downed deer, what is the first thing you should do?

1. Yell at it to ensure it's dead

2. Touch its eye with a stick

3. Unload your firearm

4. Prepare your camera for pictures

The correct answer is: Touch its eye with a stick

When approaching a downed deer, the first thing you should do is check for any signs of life. Although option A may seem like a logical response, it is not safe and can potentially cause the deer to thrash and harm yourself or others. Unloading your firearm before approaching the downed deer is also important for safety reasons. Option D could potentially scare the deer and cause it to move, so it is important to make sure it is completely dead before taking pictures. Option B, touching its eye with a stick, is the safest and most humane way to check for any signs of life without risking harm to yourself or others.