These are cultivated apple varieties, or sometimes wild, that are specifically managed or left unharvested to provide a food source for white-tailed deer and other wildlife. These fruits serve as a crucial source of carbohydrates and energy, especially during the fall and winter months when other forage is scarce. An example of this practice involves planting specific apple tree cultivars known for their late-season fruit retention, allowing the deer to browse on the dropped apples well into the colder months.
The deliberate use of these fruits offers several benefits, including improved deer health, increased body weight, and enhanced reproductive success. Historically, landowners and wildlife managers have recognized the appeal of these fruits to deer and used them strategically to attract animals to specific areas for hunting or observation. Furthermore, the presence of this readily available food source can reduce deer browsing pressure on agricultural crops and ornamental plants in surrounding areas.