Whether you’re managing land for hunting, trying to support local wildlife, or just curious, you might wonder: do deer eat alfalfa? The short answer is yes. Deer love alfalfa—but there’s more to it than that. While alfalfa is high in protein and nutrition, it has its pros and cons when used as a food source for deer.
In this article, we’ll explore when and why deer eat alfalfa, whether it’s safe for them, how it compares to other forages, and how to grow or feed it effectively.
Do Deer Eat Alfalfa?
Yes, deer eat alfalfa—especially in summer and early fall when it’s green, leafy, and growing. Alfalfa is one of the highest-protein natural forages available, and it’s packed with digestible nutrients that can support healthy antler growth, fawn development, and general body condition.
Deer are known to frequent alfalfa fields during evening and early morning hours, particularly in areas where other high-quality forage is limited.
Why Deer Like Alfalfa
Deer are selective browsers, and while they prefer a variety of plants, they’ll often key in on nutrient-dense crops. Alfalfa fits that bill:
- High protein content: Often 18–22% when fresh
- Palatable: Soft leaves and sweet flavor make it appealing
- Digestibility: Young alfalfa is easy to digest and energy-rich
Because of these traits, alfalfa is considered an excellent warm-season forage for whitetails, mule deer, and elk.
When Do Deer Eat Alfalfa Most?
Deer will eat alfalfa when it’s actively growing and still tender. This typically means:
- Spring through early fall: When alfalfa is lush and green
- Evening and dawn: Deer are most active at low-light hours
- Summer droughts: When other forage dries out, alfalfa remains a draw
However, during winter, alfalfa hay may be available—but feeding dried alfalfa comes with added risk, especially if it’s their only food source.
Can You Feed Alfalfa Hay to Deer?
Yes, but with caution. Feeding deer baled alfalfa hay during harsh winters is common in some areas, but it should be done properly:
Pros of Alfalfa Hay:
- Good protein and energy source
- Available in large quantities
- Can help deer recover body mass post-rut
Cons of Alfalfa Hay:
- Can cause digestive problems if introduced suddenly
- Risk of bloating or acidosis if deer aren’t used to it
- Overfeeding can cause imbalance in deer gut bacteria
Introduce hay gradually and always supplement with natural browse or deer-specific pellet feed to maintain a healthy balance.
Is Alfalfa Good for Deer Food Plots?
Yes, alfalfa is an excellent crop for deer food plots—especially in larger fields with good sunlight and drainage. It provides multi-season nutrition and is especially valuable in late summer when native forage quality declines.
Here’s why land managers and hunters plant alfalfa:
- High yield: You can harvest multiple cuttings per year or let deer graze naturally.
- Longevity: A well-managed alfalfa stand can last 3–5 years.
- Attraction: Deer will return nightly when alfalfa is palatable.
Tips for Planting Alfalfa for Deer
If you want to grow alfalfa to attract or feed deer, here are a few practical tips:
- Plant in full sun: Alfalfa doesn’t do well in shade.
- Prepare soil properly: Conduct a soil test; pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0.
- Use a quality seed: Choose varieties bred for your region.
- Fertilize and lime as needed: Alfalfa is nutrient-hungry and needs calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Mow or graze lightly: Avoid letting it grow too tall or woody, which reduces palatability.
Alfalfa vs Other Deer Forages
| Forage Type | Protein % | Seasonal Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alfalfa | 18–22% | Spring to Fall | Excellent summer forage; great for plots and hay |
| White Clover | 20–30% | Spring to Fall | More shade tolerant; mixes well with other crops |
| Soybeans | 25–30% | Summer | Highly attractive but vulnerable to overgrazing |
| Winter Wheat | 14–18% | Fall and Winter | Better for cold-season attraction and nutrition |
Can Alfalfa Be Harmful to Deer?
Yes, in some situations. While alfalfa is nutritious, it can be dangerous if:
- Fed in large quantities without adjustment time
- Deer are stressed, cold, or starved (which reduces digestion efficiency)
- It’s moldy or improperly stored (which can cause illness)
If you’re feeding alfalfa in winter, mix it with other forage types like twigs, native browse, or pellet feed to ease digestion and prevent stomach upset.
Conclusion
Yes, deer do eat alfalfa—and they love it. It’s high in protein, very palatable, and an excellent forage choice for spring, summer, and fall. It can also be used as supplemental winter feed if introduced carefully. Whether you’re managing a food plot or considering hay feeding, alfalfa can be a valuable tool when used properly.
Just remember: like any feed, too much of a good thing can backfire. Use it with balance and awareness, and you’ll keep your local deer herd happy, healthy, and coming back for more.