During which season does new, succulent growth from forbs provide the highest quality, protein-rich menu for deer?
Answer
Spring
The spring season represents the most nutritionally optimal time of year for white-tailed deer because the landscape produces its highest quality forage. This period sees the emergence of new, succulent growth from forbs and early browse. This new vegetation is significantly high in protein content, which is essential for deer recovering from the nutritional stress of winter. This influx of high-quality protein is crucial for enabling males to initiate antler development and for females to support the early growth stages of their fawns, setting the stage for successful annual reproductive cycles.
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