Jack Huston’s innovative use of thermal drones is changing the way landowners and hunters understand deer behavior, habitat use, and herd management across the Midwest. With thousands of drone flights over more than 200,000 acres and surveys of nearly 30,000 deer across eight states, Huston’s data-driven approach offers eye-opening insights for anyone serious about effective deer management.
How Thermal Drones Are Revolutionizing Deer Surveys
Just three years ago, Jack Huston realized the untapped potential of thermal drones for tracking deer populations and improving recovery efforts. What started as a deer recovery tool has evolved into a robust system for surveying herds, studying habitat preferences, and identifying overlooked bedding areas.
Huston’s findings consistently show that many landowners underestimate their herds by up to 25%. This can lead to overbrowsing, habitat degradation, and fewer healthy bucks. Accurate surveys are the first step to balancing herd density and keeping deer populations strong.
Eye-Opening Trends in Deer Behavior and Habitat Use
One standout example: on a southern Iowa farm, Huston recorded a population jump from 420 deer in November to over 910 in January — proof of how deer migrate to food sources as seasons change. He’s also found that mature bucks often bed in less desirable areas, while does stay closer to food plots. These patterns challenge old assumptions and help landowners make smarter habitat improvements.
Why High-Quality Browse Matters
No surprise here — Huston’s thermal drone research reinforces that food drives everything. Even bedded deer are frequently found browsing. By maintaining healthy, diverse browse, landowners can attract and hold more deer year-round.
Better Deer Management: Data-Driven and Sustainable
Huston recommends an ideal target of about 100 deer per square mile for balanced herd health on many Midwest properties. His best practices include:
- âś… Conducting annual surveys at the same time each year to monitor herd changes
- âś… Implementing strategic doe harvests to achieve and maintain balance
Overcoming Skepticism About Drone Surveys
Some landowners doubt that drones can reveal more than they already know. But Huston’s work proves otherwise — thermal drones detect real-time herd size, movement, and bedding that even experienced hunters can miss. Armed with precise data, landowners can make confident, informed decisions to support healthy deer populations.
Final Takeaway
Jack Huston’s groundbreaking work with thermal drones is reshaping deer population surveys and management strategies. As more landowners adopt this technology, expect smarter herd management and healthier whitetail deer populations for generations to come.
✅ Follow Jack Huston’s journey at Midwest Deer Surveys and the WHTL YouTube channel for more real-world tips on thermal drone deer surveys and modern wildlife management!