Florida Forestry Information - Wildlife Food Florida Forestry Information Wildlife Food Food is the first essential element that you can help provide for wildlife on your land. Food requirements vary among wildlife species. Food Wildlife Management Menu Home Mast Mast is the term used to describe the seeds and fruits of plants which are eaten by animals. Mast is most likely one of the most important naturally-occurring wildlife food sources on your property. Acorns, produced by oaks, are an important type of hard mast.
Soft mast is the seeds, catkins, and berries produced by plants.
Walnut, hickory and other trees produce soft mast. It is very important to consider the fruiting patterns of mast-producing plants so decisions can be made about their managment. Fruiting habits vary by species and locality and among trees of a species. For example, white oaks flower and bear fruit in one growing season, so the acorns of white oaks are found on the current year's growth. Red oaks flower and bear fruit in one growing season, but the acorns are not mature until the following season.