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Do deer eat smartweed?

Published in Wildlife Forage 2 mins read

Yes, deer do eat smartweed.

Smartweed (plants from the Polygonum and Persicaria genera) is a plant that deer are known to browse on, consuming its foliage as part of their diet.

Smartweed: A Multifaceted Plant for Wildlife

Beyond providing forage for deer, smartweed is a highly beneficial plant that plays a significant role in supporting a diverse array of wildlife and contributing to overall ecosystem health. Its value extends across various animal groups due to its different plant parts serving as food sources.

Ecological Benefits of Smartweed:

  • Forage for Browsers: While deer are known to browse on smartweed plants, other species of mammals also consume its foliage, making it a general food source in many habitats.
  • Pollinator Support: The flowers of smartweed attract a variety of essential pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This provides them with crucial nectar and pollen, aiding in the pollination of smartweed and other surrounding plants.
  • Critical Seed Source: The seeds produced by smartweed are an extremely important dietary component for numerous bird species and small mammals. This includes:
    • Waterfowl: Such as ducks and geese, which often frequent areas where smartweed grows.
    • Upland Game Birds: Including quail and pheasants, which rely on the seeds.
    • Songbirds: Many species of songbirds find smartweed seeds to be a valuable and accessible food source, especially during migration or winter months.
    • Small Mammals: Various rodents and other small mammals also depend on smartweed seeds as a significant portion of their diet.

Smartweed's adaptability allows it to thrive in various environments, including wetlands, disturbed areas, and agricultural landscapes, further enhancing its importance as a consistent food source for a broad range of wildlife. For more detailed information, resources like the Mississippi State University Extension offer extensive insights into this valuable plant.

Smartweed's Contributions to Wildlife Diets

To summarize the diverse benefits of smartweed for different animal groups:

Wildlife Benefited Part of Smartweed Consumed
Deer Plants (foliage)
Other Browsing Mammals Plants (foliage)
Waterfowl Seeds
Upland Game Birds Seeds
Songbirds Seeds
Small Mammals (e.g., Rodents) Seeds
Bees & Butterflies Flowers (nectar/pollen)