Alfalfa hay crop loss due to mule deer depredation

Abstract

To define alfalfa crop loss from depredating mule deer, the spotlight count and paired plot techniques were applied in 12 fields located throughout Utah. Protected and grazed plots were used to determine alfalfa loss. A significant relationship between deer-nights of grazing and alfalfa loss was determined. Based on our studies, we recommend using 2.4 kg/deer-night for mule deer depredation of alfalfa using the spotlight count assessment technique. Nutritional quality of alfalfa was not different between grazed and protected plots.