OH…DEER!
Many folks
enjoy seeing deer along a country road, standing quietly beside trees and
shrubs, majestically viewing the landscape. They remind us of nature and bring
a touch of “wild” into our lives, especially when we are surprised by their presence.
However, our growing neighborhoods are encroaching into areas that were once
rural, bringing wildlife into our backyards.
Extension
Wildlife Specialist, Thomas Barnes, explains*, “Whitetail deer were abundant in
our country when European settlers first arrived. By 1900, however,
uncontrolled hunting had reduced the U.S. white-tailed deer population to
around 300,000. The deer population has since rebounded as a result of strict
hunting laws, intensive reestablishment and restoration efforts, and changing
habitat to favor deer. Today, it is hard to imagine white-tailed deer
populations not being abundant.”
Indeed,
browsing deer are unaware of property lines, and in some Jefferson County areas
cause damage to gardens and landscape beds. Frustrated homeowners try
everything from dog hair to mothballs trying to repel or discourage deer. These
“home remedies” do not control deer or limit their damage. There is no easy,
goof-proof method to keep deer away with the possible exception of fencing, and
that is neither easy nor inexpensive. A combination of tactics such as chemical
or taste repellants and flagging (frightening) may provide some control. Deer
have discriminating taste buds and can be selective feeders. Selecting plants
that deer are not likely to browse may limit damage to landscapes. Several
universities have publications that list deer resistant plants.
However,
because of hunger or population pressure there are no deer-proof plants. These publications can recommend
several types of control, but many variables must be considered when deciding
on deer management.
Ohio State
University, Preventing and Controlling Deer Damage:
Cornell
University Resistance of Woody Ornamental Plants to Deer Damage:
Cornell
University has a great publication on deer control:
*From Managing
Whitetail Deer in Kentucky:
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