The question of whether cervids consume the fruit of the Maclura pomifera tree is a subject of recurring inquiry. These fruits, often referred to by a common name alluding to their visual similarity to a particular fruit, are large, green, and possess a somewhat wrinkled texture. Reports regarding their palatability to various wildlife species, including those in the deer family, vary considerably.
Understanding the dietary habits of deer populations is crucial for effective land management and wildlife conservation strategies. A comprehensive knowledge of their potential food sources, including unconventional ones, aids in predicting browsing pressure on preferred vegetation and implementing appropriate mitigation measures when necessary. Furthermore, historical anecdotal evidence often suggests that the fruits in question were used, albeit sometimes ineffectively, as a natural pest deterrent.
