Agriculture Minimizing Deer Damage to Residential Plantings by Chester Hill, Roosevelt County Extension Agent, and Jim Knight, Extension Wildlife Specialistt Deer are probably the most widely distributed and best recognized large animal in North America. Two species most common in Montana are the white-tailed and mule deer. Deer habitat includes wildlands, agricultural areas, and, in some cases, residential areas. Deer favor early vegetation stages that keep brush and sapling browse within reach.
Dense cover is used for winter shelter and protection.
Because deer are so adaptable and residential areas sometimes provide suitable habitat, deer pose challenges to homeowners. Damage identification is not difficult. Because both mule deer and white-tailed deer lack upper incisors, deer often leave a jagged or torn surface on twigs or stems that they browse. Homeowners can be frustrated in keeping these pests away from their trees or garden plants. Scare devices, exclusion and repellents have a place in deer damage control.