Want to have some wildlife friends over? You’re in luck—if you live in an area with a healthy deer population, there’s a good chance you can attract some deer to your yard.
Keep reading to learn about three types of deer that are commonly found in North America and how to attract them to your property.
1. White-tailed deer.
One of the most common types of deer in North America, white-tailed deer are found in wooded areas from Canada all the way down to Central America.
If you want to attract white-tailed deer to your yard, try planting some perennials, shrubs, and trees that are native to your area. Oak, hickory, and beech trees are all good options.
You can also try planting fruit trees and bushes—deer love munching on apples, pears, berries, and cherries.
Just make sure you put up a fence around your garden if you don’t want the deer eating all your hard work!
2. Mule deer.
Related to the white-tailed deer, mule deer are distinguished by their larger size and their black-tipped tails.
Mule deer are found in open woodlands and brushy areas throughout western North America.
To attract mule deer to your yard, try planting some alfalfa, clover, and other types of forage crops. You can also put out a salt lick for the deer to enjoy.
Just be aware that mule deer are more likely than other types of deer to contract diseases like chronic wasting disease, so it’s important to do your research before deciding whether or not you want to attract them to your property
3. Roosevelt elk.
The largest member of the North American deer family, the Roosevelt elk can weigh up to 1,000 pounds!
These majestic animals are found in old-growth forests along the Pacific Coast from northern California up into British Columbia.
If you want to attract Roosevelt elk to your yard, try planting some Douglas fir trees—elk love eating the young tender shoots of these trees. You can also try putting out a mineral block for the elk to enjoy.
Just be aware that Roosevelt elk are very large creatures and they can cause significant damage to property if they’re not carefully managed.
4.Black-Tailed Deer.
Black-tailed deer are similar in size to mule deer and also have black tips on their tails.
They get their name from the black fur on their backsides.
Black-tailed deer are found in the western United States, from California up to Alaska.
5.Moose
The moose is the largest type of deer in North America, with males weighing up to 1,800 pounds.
Moose have long legs and necks and they can grow antlers that spread up to six feet wide.
Moose are mostly found in Canada and Alaska, but you might spot one if you’re lucky enough to live in a state like Maine or Minnesota.
Deer are beautiful animals that can enhance any yard or garden —but it’s important to do your research before attracting them to your property.
Make sure you’re familiar with the types of deer that are found in your area and what kinds of food they like to eat so you can provide a healthy diet for them.
