Introduction
What do deer eat? This is a question every hunter and wildlife enthusiast has likely asked at some point. From my personal experience hunting deer in Arizona, I’ve witnessed deer eating an impressive variety of plants, some of which are downright surprising. Understanding deer diets isn’t just fascinating—it’s also a crucial part of becoming a more effective hunter. Whether you’re tracking their movements, identifying high-traffic areas, or simply learning more about these incredible animals, knowing what do deer eat can significantly improve your hunting strategy.
Deer Diet: From Cactus to Acorns
In Arizona, deer have adapted to their unique environment and will eat just about anything that provides nutrition. The craziest thing I’ve personally seen was a deer eating prickly pear cactus. After a successful harvest one season, we discovered a deer’s mouth filled with cactus needles. At first, we were puzzled, but on another trip, while glassing a hillside, I spotted a doe carefully plucking cactus fruit without hesitation.
Besides cactus, I’ve seen deer eat grass, leaves from random bushes, and occasionally wild apples. While apples aren’t common in Arizona, there are pockets of wild apple trees if you know where to look. Brush oak trees are far more common, and deer seem to go wild for acorns. I remember field dressing a deer once and finding its esophagus packed with acorn bits—clearly, it had been feasting on them before I crossed its path.
For hunters in regions with more traditional deer food sources, like agricultural fields or apple orchards, deer diets may look a little different. But one thing is consistent: deer will always gravitate toward high-energy food sources, especially during fall and winter when they’re preparing for harsh conditions.
Related Read: The Role of Wind in Deer Hunting: How to Use It to Your Advantage
Food Plots and Baiting: Know Your Local Laws
Unfortunately, in Arizona, baiting deer or planting food plots to attract them is illegal. This means I haven’t had the chance to experiment with these methods personally. However, it’s crucial for hunters to understand their state’s laws and regulations regarding baiting and food plots. Every state has different rules, and breaking them can result in hefty fines or losing your hunting privileges.
That said, if you live in a state where food plots are allowed, they can be highly effective. Crops like clover, alfalfa, and brassicas are well-known for attracting deer. Some hunters even swear by commercial food plot seed mixes designed specifically for whitetails.
For anyone interested in setting up a food plot, resources like Whitetail Institute and Mossy Oak BioLogic offer excellent products and advice on planting and maintaining food plots.
Related Read: How to Scout for Deer: Proven Strategies for Success
Natural Food Sources vs. Supplemental Feeding
While food plots and baiting are off the table in Arizona, it’s worth noting that deer are incredibly resourceful animals. They naturally seek out high-protein plants, tender green shoots, and seasonal fruits like apples and persimmons where available. Acorns are another high-energy food source that deer actively seek, especially in autumn.
Supplemental feeding is another method hunters in some states use, but again, legality varies widely. If you’re considering supplemental feeding and need to know what do deer eat, it’s your responsibility to check your local laws. For many landowners, supplemental feeding can complement food plots by ensuring deer have consistent access to nutritious food during harsh winters.
Resources for Understanding Deer Diets
While I rely on firsthand observations and experience, there’s no shortage of online resources for hunters who want to dive deeper into what do deer eat. Platforms like YouTube are filled with tutorials from experienced land managers and hunters who share their knowledge on food plot creation and deer nutrition.
Additionally, government agencies like the National Deer Association offer scientifically backed resources on deer feeding habits, food plot recommendations, and habitat management strategies.
Conclusion
So, what do deer eat? The answer varies based on region, season, and available resources. In Arizona, I’ve seen deer eat everything from cactus fruit to acorns, proving their adaptability. For hunters in states where baiting and food plots are allowed, managing deer diets can be a powerful tool for both hunting success and conservation.
The most important takeaway is to always check your state’s hunting regulations before implementing any feeding or food plot strategies. There’s plenty of information available online, through wildlife agencies, and from hunting communities to help guide you. Whether you’re glassing a hillside for deer nibbling on cactus or setting up a food plot in the Midwest, understanding what deer eat will always give you an edge in the field.
