Damage from deer and elk is common on Douglas-fir in the spring, and on Fraser, Turkish, and Nordmann fir in winter and spring.
Signs & Symptoms
- Antler Rubbing: occurs on trees with open internodal spaces. Often bark is scraped off, producing long-lasting injury.
- Foliage Feeding: damage to leaders and upper branches, usually the current season foliage
Where to Look
- Droppings and tracks around the base of trees aid in identification
Management Options
- Fencing, repellents for individual tree protection.
Signs & Symptoms
- Small feeding marks around the stem of seedlings
- A decrease in tree growth from sublethal feeding injuries
- Tree death, if smaller trees completely girdled
Where to Look
- Stems of seedlings, just above ground level, especially during winter and early spring
Management Options
- Maintain weed control in the rows, particularly around the base of the tree; bare ground exposes rodents to predators.
