What is the Best Summer Food for Deer?
The best summer food for deer is a diverse selection of natural vegetation, including succulent forbs, legumes, and browse from shrubs and trees, providing essential nutrients for growth and reproduction. These natural sources offer the optimal balance of protein, energy, and minerals that deer require during the warmer months.
The Summer Bounty: A Deer’s Perspective
Summer marks a period of abundance for deer, offering a smorgasbord of vegetation. This is a crucial time for them, as they focus on recovering from the lean winter months, supporting the growth of fawns (for does), and building up reserves for the rut and the coming winter. The availability and quality of summer forage significantly impacts their overall health, antler development (in bucks), and reproductive success.
The Nutritional Needs of Deer in Summer
Deer have specific nutritional requirements that vary throughout the year. In summer, they need:
- High Protein: Essential for antler growth, muscle development, and milk production in does.
- Adequate Energy (Carbohydrates and Fats): Fuels their activities and helps them store energy for the winter.
- Essential Minerals (Calcium, Phosphorus, etc.): Vital for bone development, antler growth, and overall health.
- Water: Crucial for hydration, especially during hot summer months.
Identifying the Best Natural Forage
Deer are opportunistic feeders, but they have definite preferences and prioritize plants that offer the best nutritional value and palatability. Some of the best summer food for deer in terms of natural forage includes:
- Forbs (Herbaceous Flowering Plants):
- Clovers (various species) – Excellent source of protein.
- Alfalfa – Highly palatable and nutritious.
- Ragweed (early growth stages) – Preferred by deer in many regions.
- Legumes:
- Beans (wild varieties) – Provide high protein content.
- Peas (wild varieties) – Another protein-rich option.
- Browse (Leaves and Twigs of Woody Plants):
- Sumac – Palatable and readily available in many areas.
- Greenbrier – A good source of browse, especially in the understory.
- Maple (saplings and lower branches) – Often browsed when available.
- Oak (saplings and lower branches) – Acorns provide valuable nutrients.
- Fruits & Berries:
- Blackberries – A sweet and nutritious treat.
- Raspberries – Another favorite berry.
- Apples (fallen) – A valuable energy source if available.
Food Plots: Supplementing Natural Forage
While natural forage is ideal, food plots can supplement a deer’s diet, especially in areas where natural food sources are limited or degraded. Choosing the right plants for a food plot is critical. Ideal options include:
- Clovers: White clover, red clover, and alsike clover are all excellent choices.
- Alfalfa: A high-protein option that deer readily consume.
- Soybeans: Offer excellent protein and energy.
- Corn: Provides a valuable energy source, particularly late in the summer.
- Brassicas (turnips, kale, rape): Can provide late-season forage into the fall.
| Plant | Protein Content | Palatability | Season of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| ————– | —————– | ————– | ————— |
| White Clover | 15-25% | High | Spring/Summer |
| Alfalfa | 15-22% | High | Spring/Summer |
| Soybeans | 30-40% | High | Summer |
| Corn | 8-10% | Moderate | Late Summer |
Considerations for Habitat Management
Managing deer habitat is crucial for ensuring they have access to the best summer food. This includes:
- Promoting Native Plant Growth: Encourage the growth of native forbs, legumes, and browse species.
- Creating Edge Habitat: The edges of forests and fields provide a variety of food sources.
- Prescribed Burning: Can stimulate the growth of new vegetation and improve forage quality.
- Thinning Timber: Allows more sunlight to reach the forest floor, promoting the growth of forbs and shrubs.
Common Mistakes in Deer Feeding
- Over-reliance on Corn: While corn provides energy, it lacks essential protein and minerals.
- Feeding Unhealthy Processed Foods: Can lead to digestive problems and nutritional imbalances.
- Creating Dependency: Deer may become reliant on supplemental feeding and neglect natural forage.
- Ignoring Habitat Management: Focusing solely on supplemental feeding without improving the overall habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that deer are lacking adequate nutrition in the summer?
Signs of nutritional deficiencies can include poor body condition (thin appearance), reduced antler growth in bucks, decreased milk production in does, and increased susceptibility to disease. A veterinarian or wildlife biologist can help assess specific conditions and provide further assessment.
Is it legal to feed deer in my state during the summer?
It varies by state and local regulations. Some areas prohibit supplemental feeding during certain times of the year to prevent disease transmission and unnatural concentration of deer. Always check with your local wildlife agency before providing any supplemental feed.
How can I attract more deer to my property in the summer?
Improving habitat is key. This includes promoting the growth of native forage, creating edge habitat, and providing a reliable water source. Consult with a wildlife professional for site-specific recommendations.
Should I provide mineral supplements to deer in the summer?
Mineral supplements can be beneficial, especially during antler growth and lactation. Choose a mineral supplement specifically formulated for deer and place it in a location where deer frequently travel.
What is the best way to establish a food plot for deer in the summer?
Begin by conducting a soil test to determine nutrient deficiencies. Select plant species that are adapted to your soil type and climate. Prepare the seedbed properly and follow recommended seeding rates. Consider using a no-till drill to minimize soil disturbance.
How often should I replenish a deer feeder in the summer?
It depends on the size of the deer population and the capacity of the feeder. Monitor the feeder regularly and refill it as needed to ensure a consistent supply of supplemental feed.
Are there any plants that are toxic to deer?
Yes, some plants can be toxic to deer. Examples include certain species of rhododendron, azalea, and cherry (wilted leaves). Consult with a local expert for a complete list of toxic plants in your area.
How does drought affect deer food sources in the summer?
Drought can significantly reduce the availability and quality of deer forage. Plants may become stressed and less nutritious, and water sources may dry up. This can lead to increased competition for resources and nutritional deficiencies.
What are the benefits of planting a variety of different food sources for deer?
Planting a variety of different food sources provides a more balanced diet and ensures that deer have access to a consistent supply of food throughout the summer. It also makes your land more attractive to deer by offering a wider range of options.
How can I protect my garden from deer browsing in the summer?
There are several ways to protect your garden from deer, including fencing, repellents, and scare tactics. Fencing is the most effective method, but it can be expensive. Repellents can be effective but need to be reapplied regularly.
What role do insects play in the summer deer diet?
Insects, while not a major part of the summer diet, can provide a supplemental source of protein, especially for fawns. Deer may consume insects incidentally while browsing on vegetation.
How can I tell if the deer population on my property is healthy?
Signs of a healthy deer population include good body condition, consistent fawn recruitment, and healthy antler growth. Consult with a wildlife biologist for a population assessment. They can help determine if there’s a proper balance and access to what is the best summer food for deer.