There is only one deer species native to the state of Maryland and that is the white-tailed deer. White-tailed deer are extremely active and visible during the summer months given the wealth of food during this time.
Given their increased level of activity, many homeowners will begin finding more and more traces or sightings of deer on their property, which begs the question: what attracts deer to property?
Coverage
Throughout the year, and especially during the hot summer months, deer will rest underneath coverage. This hiding cover is commonly an area of dense trees and shrubs. Deers also prefer to rest in areas with little to no disturbance from humans or other animals. Overall, deer will only lay down in locations that they feel are safe from both predators and outside factors.
These areas of coverage are also important to does and their young during the fawn’s first few months of life. Female deers will hide their fawns under coverage in order to protect their children from predators while they feed and hunt.
Vegetation
Deers are herbivores, meaning they primarily eat plant-based food sources. In fact, their digestive system has evolved to specifically allow them to eat large amounts of plant material.
That being said, deer are commonly drawn to areas with heavy vegetation. This is especially true for areas that cover their preference plants, including Daylilies, Geranium, Violas, Grapes, Brambles, and Greenbriar.
If your property has little to no fencing around your vegetation, deer are more likely to infiltrate your land. In order to protect your garden and plants against hungry deer, we recommend installing a fence that is at least four feet tall. Deer are excellent jumpers which means they can easily jump over a short fence.
The fence should also be low to the ground to prevent smaller fawns from passing underneath.
Freshwater
As for any animal, deer require freshwater in order to survive. If you have a stream or another source of freshwater on your property, chances are deer will find a way onto your property this summer. This is particularly the case in late summer or early fall when water sources have begun drying up.
In addition to natural sources of water, deer are also attracted to artificial watering areas, such as bird baths, ponds, and any other man-made water source.
Effective Humane Methods to Repel Deer from Your Property
Effective Humane Methods to Repel Deer from Your Property
Deer can be a nuisance in gardens and yards, but it’s possible to keep them at bay without causing harm. Here are practical, humane methods to repel deer.
1. Use Deer-Resistant Plants
One of the most effective ways to keep deer away is by planting species they don’t like. Consider plants such as lavender, marigolds, and foxglove. Deer tend to avoid fragrant, spiky, or bitter-tasting plants. Integrating these into your garden layout can discourage deer from approaching.
2. Install Physical Barriers
Fencing is another reliable way to keep deer off your property. Choose fences at least 8 feet tall, as deer can easily jump over shorter barriers. A solid or slatted fence works well, or opt for a mesh fence for less visibility.
3. Use Scent-Based Repellents
Deer have a strong sense of smell, and certain odors can deter them. Commercial repellents made with ingredients like garlic or rotten eggs are often effective. These can be sprayed around the perimeter of your property or directly on plants.
4. Employ Motion-Activated Devices
Motion-activated lights, sprinklers, or noisemakers can startle deer and cause them to avoid the area. These devices detect movement and activate, making them an effective tool for larger properties or gardens.
5. Rotate Repellent Methods
Deer can become accustomed to repellents over time, so it’s important to switch up your methods. Rotating between plants, physical barriers, and different scent-based or motion devices ensures that deer stay wary of your property.
Have a Deer Problem? Call the Experts at Shumaker Animal Control
If you think you have a deer problem on your property, or you still have questions about what attracts deer to property, call the experts at Shumaker Animal Control to deal with the problem for you. Our experienced team will take care of the problem in a timely manner, ensuring that your home and pets are not in any danger.
At Shumaker Animal Control, we are a family-owned business who cares about the safety of you and your family but also about the well-being of the animals themselves. All of our trapping and control methods are humane, as we never try to hurt the angry or scared animal.
Call us at 443-854-8072, visit our website or fill out our contact form for more information.
