As the weather warms up and the days grow longer deer begin to move around more. They may travel several miles in a day in search of food. In the summer deer eat a variety of plants including grasses herbs shrubs and trees.
The amount of time deer spend feeding varies with the availability of food. When food is plentiful deer may feed for several hours a day. During periods of drought or winter when food is scarce deer may only feed for a few minutes each day.
Deer are browsers which means they eat the leaves stems and twigs of plants. They also eat fruits and nuts when they are available. Deer prefer to eat the new growth of plants which is usually more tender and nutritious than older growth.
In the summer deer may also eat insects such as ants grubs and caterpillars. These insects are an important source of protein for deer and they help keep the deer’s coat healthy.
Deer generally avoid being out in the open during the heat of the day. They will bed down in shady areas to rest and ruminate which is a process of digesting their food. At night deer are more active and may feed for several hours.
As the summer comes to an end deer begin to prepare for the winter. They eat more to build up their fat reserves and their coat begins to grow thicker. By the time winter arrives deer will have everything they need to survive the cold months.
Where do deer sleep during the day?
Most deer sleep in secluded wooded areas.
Where do deer go during the winter?
Deer will go wherever they can find food and shelter.
This often means moving to lower elevations where there is less snow.
What do deer eat?
Deer are herbivores and their diet consists mostly of grasses plants and twigs.
How often do deer drink water?
Deer drink water once every day or every other day.
Do deer like to swim?
Yes deer like to swim and often do so to escape predators or to find food.
How long do deer live?
The average lifespan of a deer is between 8 and 12 years but some have been known to live up to 20 years.
How many offspring does a deer have?
Most deer have 1-2 offspring per year but some species of deer can have up to 6.
What is the primary predators of deer?
The primary predators of deer are humans wolves and bears.
How much does an adult deer weigh?
The average adult deer weighs between 150 and 300 pounds.
How much does a newborn deer weigh?
Most newborn deer weigh between 4 and 8 pounds.
What is the top speed of a deer?
The average top speed of a deer is 30 miles per hour.
How far can a deer jump?
The average deer can jump between 8 and 10 feet high and up to 30 feet long.
What is the primary purpose of a deer’s tail?
The primary purpose of a deer’s tail is to communicate with other deer.
What is the rut?
The rut is the mating season for deer which takes place between October and November.
How can you tell if a deer is male or female?
The easiest way to tell if a deer is male or female is by looking at their antlers.
Male deer have antlers while female deer do not.
