Some Underrated and Overlooked Food Sources That Whitetail Deer May Seek Out

By Derrick R. Stallings – HuntingOfficer.com

While whitetail deer are known for their affinity for certain high-profile food sources like acorns and corn, a plethora of often-overlooked plants provide essential nutrition and can be used to attract these elusive creatures. These underrated food sources, often found in natural settings or cultivated in food plots, play a crucial role in deer diets, particularly during periods when more popular options are scarce.

One such underrated food source is the humble ragweed. Often dismissed as a pesky allergen, ragweed offers a surprisingly high protein content, making it an attractive food source for deer, especially during the late summer and fall. Its tall, unassuming stalks and abundant pollen-laden flowers provide a readily available energy boost when other food sources may be dwindling.

Another often-overlooked food source is the humble sumac. This shrub, with its vibrant red berries, is a valuable wintertime food for deer. The berries, high in tannins and other nutrients, provide essential sustenance when other options are scarce. Additionally, the leaves and twigs of sumac offer browse, a crucial component of a deer’s diet, particularly during harsh winters.

While not as widely known as clover or soybeans, forbs like chicory and iron clay peas offer significant nutritional value for deer. Chicory, with its deep taproot and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, provides a reliable food source throughout the year. Its bitter leaves, though unpalatable to many animals, are readily consumed by deer, offering a unique blend of nutrients. Iron clay peas, on the other hand, are a legume that fixes nitrogen in the soil, improving its fertility and providing a valuable protein source for deer.

Beyond these often-overlooked plants, various shrubs and trees provide crucial food sources for deer. Dogwood, with its vibrant red berries, is a popular food source for deer, particularly during the fall and winter. The berries, high in sugar and fat, provide a quick energy boost and help deer maintain body weight during harsh conditions. Additionally, the leaves and twigs of dogwood offer browse, providing essential fiber and nutrients.

Another often-overlooked tree is the persimmon. This deciduous tree, with its unique orange-colored fruit, is a valuable food source for deer, particularly during the fall. The fruit, high in sugar and antioxidants, is a favorite of deer, and its abundance can attract deer to specific areas. Additionally, the leaves and twigs of persimmon offer browse, providing essential nutrients and fiber.

While these underrated food sources may not be as widely known or cultivated as traditional deer food plots, they play a vital role in the diets of whitetail deer. By understanding and appreciating the value of these often-overlooked plants, hunters and land managers can create more diverse and productive habitats that support healthy deer populations.

*AI Was Used In The Creation Of This Educational Article