White-tailed deer in the Southeastern United States forage on more than 400 plant species, according to wildlife officials. Their diet varies throughout the year, depending on what is available in their habitat.
Deer are opportunistic eaters, consuming a wide range of vegetation including forbs, browse, mast, and grasses. Forbs are herbaceous, broad-leaved plants, while browse consists of twigs, vines, and leaves from woody plants. Mast refers to fruits and nuts, and their diet also includes grasses and sedges, especially during early growth stages or in cool-season areas.
Wildlife agencies suggest that understanding these feeding habits can help landowners manage habitats more effectively. For more information on deer diets and habitat management, visit the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website.
Photographer Steve Gulledge contributed to this report.
