Foods that Deer Eat in Texas

Texas is a deer hunter's paradise with trophy-class bucks spread across the state. The deer in Texas do not grow big antlers by accident. Ranchers do a fantastic job managing the herds and supplying plenty of food sources. Typical Texas agriculture provides only a small percentage of food sources for deer, so many ranches incorporate food plots into their management program.
Forbs and Browse
Deer are ruminants, which chew their cud and concentrate feeding patterns on forbs and browse -- the leaves and twigs of woody plants. These plants supply an ample amount of protein and digest easier than grasses. Browse is typically available year-round; forbs are not always available, as they are sensitive to the cold. Whitetail deer are very sensitive and selective with the forbs and browse they choose.
Hard Mast
Hard mast, including fruits and acorns, is a classic food source for deer, and Texas deer are no different. Areas containing a heavy concentration of oak trees will attract a large number of deer. As fruit trees' crops mature and drop to the ground, the deer will move into these areas.
Food Plots
During the late summer and fall months, deer will need supplemental feed when the native forage loses nutritional value. Properly planted food plots can supply the missing nutrients to keep the deer herds healthy. Possible plants for fall planting are clovers, alfalfa, oats, wheat or rye. Look at Tecomate, Bio-Logic, or Whitetail Institute food plot mixes to supplement the food available to deer. Many ranches that manage the trophy quality of the whitetail bucks maintain a year-round food plot program that complements the natural forage.