Deer Dining: What’s on the Wild Menu?

Leaves – A major part of a deer’s diet, especially during spring and summer when trees and bushes are full of fresh leaves.

Grass – Deer eat soft, green grasses, especially in open meadows or clearings.

Twigs and Bark – In winter, when food is scarce, deer will chew on twigs and bark to survive.

Fruits – They enjoy apples, berries, and other wild fruits when available in late summer and fall.

Nuts – Acorns and beechnuts are favorites during autumn and give deer a fat boost before winter.

Crops – Near farms, deer may eat corn, soybeans, and vegetables, causing trouble for farmers.

Forbs – These broad-leaved plants are often rich in nutrients and make up much of a deer’s spring diet.

Water – Though not food, water is vital. Deer often stay near sources of fresh water to drink daily.

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