Deer are known for their opportunistic eating habits, consuming a wide variety of plants, fruits, and nuts to survive. But when it comes to black walnuts, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. While deer might eat black walnuts under certain circumstances, they're not a preferred food source. Let's delve into the specifics.
Why Deer Might Avoid Black Walnuts
The primary reason deer might avoid black walnuts is their strong, pungent taste and smell. Unlike sweeter nuts like acorns or hickory nuts, black walnuts have a more bitter, astringent flavor that many animals find unappealing. This bitterness is a natural defense mechanism of the black walnut tree, discouraging consumption and aiding seed dispersal.
Furthermore, the hard shell of the black walnut presents a challenge. Deer lack the strong jaws and teeth necessary to easily crack open the tough outer shell to access the nutmeat inside. While they could potentially consume a few if they're already desperate for food, the energy expenditure involved likely outweighs the nutritional benefit.
When Deer Might Eat Black Walnuts
There are certain situations where deer might consume black walnuts:
- Food Scarcity: During harsh winters or periods of drought when other food sources are scarce, deer might resort to eating less desirable foods, including black walnuts. Desperation can override their preference for tastier options.
- Availability of Damaged Nuts: If black walnuts have been cracked open naturally (perhaps by squirrels or other animals) or damaged by weather, the readily accessible nutmeat becomes more appealing to deer. They're more likely to consume the softer, exposed nutmeat than wrestle with the whole, hard shell.
- Young, Green Walnuts: While mature black walnuts are less appealing, younger, greener walnuts might be slightly less bitter and more palatable to deer, although this is not a confirmed preference.
What Other Foods Do Deer Eat?
Deer are herbivores with diverse diets. They primarily consume:
- Forbs: These are broadleaf flowering plants, a staple in their diet.
- Grasses: A significant portion of their food intake comes from various grass species.
- Browse: This includes leaves, twigs, and buds from shrubs and trees.
- Fruits: Apples, berries, and other fruits are enjoyed seasonally.
- Acorns: A particularly important food source, especially in oak-rich forests.
- Other Nuts: Hickory nuts, beechnuts, and chestnuts are preferred over black walnuts.
Are Black Walnuts Poisonous to Deer?
No, black walnuts are not poisonous to deer. They simply aren't a preferred food source due to their taste and the difficulty of accessing the nutmeat.
Do Black Walnuts Repel Deer?
While black walnuts aren't a proven deer repellent like some commercially available products, their strong smell might deter deer from certain areas, particularly if combined with other deterrents or if other, more preferred food sources are available. However, relying solely on black walnuts to repel deer is not a reliable strategy.
Conclusion
In summary, while deer might consume black walnuts under specific circumstances, such as severe food shortages or readily available nutmeat, they are not a favored food item. Their strong taste, hard shell, and availability of more palatable alternatives generally lead deer to avoid them. The effectiveness of black walnuts as a deer repellent is questionable and should not be the sole method for deer control.
