Cover Requirements for Whitetail Deer

The best cover for white-tailed deer is a pattern or mosaic of woody brush and trees interspersed within open areas at an approximate 60% open area to 40% woody cover.  Clumps or strips of brush should be wide enough so that an observer cannot see through them from one side to the other during the winter months when deciduous species are bare of leaves.  This gives whitetail the security they desire and keep in mind that cover strips should be as continuous as possible to provide travel lanes throughout the property.

Deer can easily be displaced by disturbance from an area without adequate escape or security cover.  The amount and distribution of cover on neighboring lands also needs to be taken into consideration when assessing the cover needs of a wide-ranging species such as whitetail deer.  For example, a small ranch would need a larger amount of security cover on a percentage basis than would a larger ranch where the vastness of the area provides security.

Remember, promoting ideal cover requirements for deer to retreat into when disturbed may keep the animals calmer, less stressed, on your property, and ultimately more productive.