A downed deer or other large animal should be approached carefully from above and behind the head.
Approach downed game from above and behind the head and wait a short distance away, watching for any rise and fall of the chest cavity.
If the animal is still alive, it should be finished with a quick shot to the base of the ear. If you wish to mount the head, place your shot in the heart-lung area. For bowhunters, the only option is placing an arrow in the heart-lung area.