Most forest owners value deer and elk on their property. However these animals can be a problems in new tree plantings. Deer and elk can kill or injure tree seedlings by eating buds and succulent new growth or pulling seedlings from the ground.
Browse damage stifles seedling growth and ultimately increase reforestation costs.
Distinguishing Deer and Elk damage Many animals can injure tree seedlings. Deer and elk damage is often higher off the ground than that caused by other animals. Deer and elk also leave a ragged, splintered break, because they grasp foliage between their lower incisors and the upper palate. Rabbits and hares leave a clean 45 degree angle clip. Prevention Strategies Deer and Elk damage can be hard to predict.