Why Deer Damage Trees?

by Jenn Smith June 16, 2020

Ever wonder why deer rub up against trees? Here is where you will learn why they do it and how to prevent deer damage on trees moving forward. Here's what forest professionals should know:

In the hot summer months, deer develop dried velvet on their antlers that is not only unsightly but heavy on their neck muscles. To alleviate the discomfort, and make themselves look more attractive to doe, they rub up against trees. This action not only prepares them for mating season, but also marks their territory to attract doe. However, when deer rub against trees, they damage the cambium layer of the tree - where the nutrients travel throughout the tree. Once this is done, the tree will not be able to continue it's growing cycle.

To prevent damage to trees, tree guards can be wrapped around young trees and deer fencing can be installed around tree farms. This is the best deer management strategy to protect tree bark from deer damage moving into the fall season.