What Can I Feed Deer in My Backyard? And Why Do They Love My Garden Gnomes?

What Can I Feed Deer in My Backyard? And Why Do They Love My Garden Gnomes?

Deer are graceful creatures that often wander into backyards, especially in suburban and rural areas. While they are primarily wild animals, many people enjoy observing them and even feeding them. However, feeding deer requires careful consideration to ensure their health and safety, as well as the well-being of your garden. Here’s a detailed guide on what you can feed deer in your backyard, along with some quirky observations about their behavior.


1. Natural Foods Deer Love

Deer are herbivores, and their diet consists mainly of plants, leaves, and fruits. If you want to feed deer in your backyard, consider offering them foods that mimic their natural diet:

  • Leafy Greens: Deer enjoy lettuce, kale, and spinach. These are easy to find and provide essential nutrients.
  • Fruits: Apples, pears, and berries are a favorite. Cut them into small pieces to make them easier for deer to eat.
  • Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash are great options. These are rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • Acorns and Nuts: If you have oak trees nearby, acorns are a natural treat for deer. They also enjoy walnuts and pecans.

2. Store-Bought Deer Feed

If you want to go the extra mile, you can purchase specially formulated deer feed from farm supply stores. These feeds are designed to meet the nutritional needs of deer and often include:

  • Pelleted Feed: Contains a mix of grains, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Mineral Blocks: Provide essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for deer health.
  • Corn: While corn is a popular choice, it should be fed in moderation. Too much corn can cause digestive issues for deer.

3. Foods to Avoid

Not all foods are safe for deer. Some can cause health problems or even be toxic. Avoid feeding deer:

  • Bread and Processed Foods: These lack nutritional value and can lead to digestive issues.
  • Dairy Products: Deer are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy.
  • Meat or Animal Products: Deer are herbivores and cannot process meat.
  • Chocolate and Caffeine: These are toxic to deer, just as they are to many other animals.

4. The Impact of Feeding Deer

Feeding deer can have both positive and negative consequences. On the positive side, it can help them survive during harsh winters when food is scarce. However, there are also downsides:

  • Dependency: Deer may become reliant on human-provided food, which can disrupt their natural foraging habits.
  • Overpopulation: Feeding deer can lead to an increase in their population, which may result in overgrazing and damage to local ecosystems.
  • Disease Spread: Concentrating deer in one area can increase the risk of disease transmission.

5. Protecting Your Garden

If you enjoy feeding deer but want to protect your garden, consider these tips:

  • Plant Deer-Resistant Plants: Lavender, marigolds, and daffodils are less appealing to deer.
  • Use Fencing: Install a tall fence around your garden to keep deer out.
  • Repellents: Use natural repellents like garlic or commercial sprays to deter deer.

6. The Curious Case of Garden Gnomes

Now, let’s address the quirky part of this discussion: why do deer seem to love garden gnomes? While there’s no scientific evidence to support this, some backyard enthusiasts have reported deer nibbling on or even knocking over garden gnomes. Perhaps it’s the bright colors or the curious shapes that attract them. Or maybe, just maybe, deer have a secret appreciation for kitsch garden decor. Whatever the reason, it’s a reminder that deer are curious creatures with unpredictable behaviors.


FAQs

Q: Can I feed deer bread?
A: No, bread lacks nutritional value and can cause digestive issues for deer.

Q: Is it legal to feed deer in my area?
A: Laws vary by location. Check with local wildlife authorities to ensure you’re complying with regulations.

Q: How often should I feed deer?
A: Feeding should be occasional, especially during winter or drought. Avoid making deer dependent on human-provided food.

Q: Do deer eat grass?
A: Yes, grass is a natural part of their diet, but they prefer tender shoots and leaves.

Q: Why do deer eat my garden gnomes?
A: It’s likely out of curiosity rather than hunger. Deer are naturally inquisitive animals.