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Fir > Trunk/Branches > Bark chewed or removed

1 of 2
  • Deer 1

    Credit: M. Grabowski, University of Minnesota

  • Deer 2

    Credit: M. Grabowski, University of Minnesota

  • Deer 3

    Credit: L. Vernon, Minnesota Master Gardener

  • - CLICK PHOTOS TO ENLARGE -

green arrowDeer feeding/antler rubbing

  • Long lines of shredded or peeled off bark along main trunk up to 3 feet off the ground from antler rubbing; wood may appear shiny or "polished"
  • Needles and small branches (<1 inch diameter) cut off with a rough or ragged edge; not a clean cut!
  • Feeding occurs from the ground up to 6 feet or slightly higher; ragged edges, same as above; if the bark is removed by a deer there will be no teeth marks
  • More information on Deer feeding/antler rubbing...
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  • Porcupine damage 1

    Credit: Joseph O'Brien, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

  • Porcupine damage 2

    Credit: Dave Hanson, University of Minnesota

  • Porcupine damage 3

    Credit: Dave Hanson, University of Minnesota

  • - CLICK PHOTOS TO ENLARGE -

green arrowPorcupine damage
Erethizon dorsatum

  • Bark chewed or removed on trunk and branches at any level
  • Higher branches snipped off with clean, smooth, slanted cut
  • Snipped-off twigs on ground
  • More common in northern Minnesota during winter and on young trees with thinner bark
  • More information on Porcupine damage...

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