Ep 2. A Trip of Firsts: Mexico Coues Deer and Javelina
- August 18, 2016
- 21 min
In the second episode of season 7 of MeatEater, titled "A Trip of Firsts: Mexico Coues Deer and Javelina," host Steve Rinella takes a trip south of the border to Sonora, Mexico, in search of Coues deer and Javelina. Rinella is accompanied by his two friends, Eduardo and Bryan, who are both experienced hunters.
The episode starts off with Rinella and his friends driving through the desert landscape of Sonora, discussing the unique challenges of hunting in this region. They arrive at their campsite, where they set up their tents and prepare for the hunt.
The next morning, Rinella and his friends set off into the desert, navigating the rocky terrain and thick brush in search of the elusive Coues deer. Rinella explains that the Coues deer is a smaller subspecies of the North American whitetail deer, known for its incredible eyesight and ability to blend into its surroundings.
After several hours of tracking and stalking, Rinella finally spots a Coues deer through his binoculars. He and his friends carefully make their way towards the deer, taking cover behind rocks and cactus to avoid being detected. Rinella takes a shot at the deer, but misses, causing it to run off.
Undeterred, Rinella and his friends continue their hunt, eventually coming across a group of Javelina. These small, pig-like animals are plentiful in the Sonoran desert, but they are also notoriously difficult to hunt. Rinella and his friends creep up on the Javelina, taking their time and carefully aiming their shots. Eventually, they are able to take down a few of the animals, which they plan to use for food.
As the sun begins to set, Rinella and his friends make their way back to camp, exhausted but exhilarated from their successful hunt. They clean and prepare the Javelina meat, and Rinella reflects on the unique challenges and rewards of hunting in a foreign country.
Overall, "A Trip of Firsts: Mexico Coues Deer and Javelina" is an exciting and informative episode of MeatEater, showcasing the thrill of hunting in a new environment and the importance of respecting the animals and landscapes we encounter.