Quick Answer
Deer feeding habits in New Jersey change seasonally, with significant variations in their diet throughout the year. In spring, deer tend to focus on tender vegetation, while in summer, they shift to more mature plants and crops. In fall, deer heavily rely on acorns and other mast, and in winter, they eat whatever they can find, including twigs and bark.
Spring Feeding Habits
In New Jersey, deer typically spend spring (March to May) feeding on new shoots and leaves of deciduous trees, as well as grasses and clover. These early spring growths are rich in nutrients, making them an essential component of a deer’s diet during this period. It’s not uncommon for deer to consume up to 8 pounds of vegetation per day during this time.
Autumn and Winter Feeding Habits
Come fall (September to November), deer’s focus shifts to acorns, beechnuts, and other mast sources. In an average year, a deer can consume 20,000 acorns or more. However, during harsh winters, deer may be forced to eat twigs, bark, and other woody plant parts to survive. In New Jersey, deer often rely on agricultural crops, such as corn and soybeans, which become more readily available during this time.
Summer Feeding Habits
In the summer months (June to August), deer tend to prefer more mature plants, including alfalfa and other legumes. These plants are high in fiber and relatively low in nutrients, making them a less desirable food source compared to spring growths. However, deer will still consume them, especially if other food sources are scarce. In New Jersey, it’s not uncommon for deer to spend up to 70% of their daylight hours feeding during the summer months.
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