Brown top millet, a popular warm-season annual grass, is used in agriculture and as a wildlife food source. A common question is: Do deer eat brown top millet? Understanding this interaction aids in wildlife management and food plot planning.
Deer and Brown Top Millet
Deer consume brown top millet, especially when young and tender. This warm-season annual offers a digestible food source, providing both protein and fiber. While not always a top preference if other, more desirable forage is readily available, it can still be a component of their diet.
Its nutritional profile contributes to its value as a food source for deer. It contains about 11-12% protein, with dietary fiber and B vitamins. Minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and iron are present. Its sweet, nutty flavor attracts deer, providing energy and supporting digestion.
Factors Influencing Deer Consumption
Several factors influence deer consumption of brown top millet. The availability of alternative food sources is significant; deer may prioritize other forage if it is more palatable or abundant. If preferred native browse or other food plot options are scarce, deer are more likely to eat brown top millet.
The millet’s growth stage is another factor. Deer prefer the plant in its younger, more succulent stages. As it matures, brown top millet becomes more fibrous and less appealing, though deer may still eat the seed heads. High local deer populations also increase browsing pressure due to competition for food.
Seasonal changes affect deer foraging. Summer food plots with brown top millet are useful when native forage quality declines. Drought conditions can also reduce other plant species, increasing deer reliance on drought-tolerant options like brown top millet. The plant thrives in dry, well-drained soil.
Integrating Brown Top Millet into Deer Management
Brown top millet plays a role in deer management, especially in food plots. It grows rapidly, maturing in 60 to 70 days. This quick growth makes it suitable for providing forage and cover within a growing season.
Planting for deer typically occurs from May through August, depending on the region and forage availability needs. Beyond food, it offers benefits like erosion control and cover for deer. It can be planted alone or mixed with other forage species, providing flexibility in food plot design.