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White-tailed Deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Medium-sized tan deer with white tail underside and large ears. Browses Bay Area native plants; ecosystem impact includes seed dispersal and vegetation management, though garden conflicts arise.

Plants that support White-tailed Deer

4 plants

Fragrant sumac

Rhus aromatica

moderate

shrub

Browsing shrub leaves and stems, especially in winter

Bay Area native

Ponderosa Pine

Pinus ponderosa

moderate

perennial herb

Browsing on low branches during severe winters

Bay Area nativeKeystone species

Red elderberry

Sambucus racemosa

moderate

shrub

Browse foliage and twigs; preference increases in winter as other food scarce

Bay Area native

Red-Osier Dogwood*

Cornus sericea subsp. sericea

high

shrub

Browse on stems and leaves; particularly important winter forage when snow limits other resources

Bay Area nativeKeystone species