There is a huge section of bark missing from the base of an old Honeysuckle bush in the corner of our back yard. I'm convinced it was neighborhood deer who did this.
It's interesting to see the dogs tracking when they go outside after we suspect critters have been on our property. We didn't see the deer this time, but I'm pretty sure they were here.
Lois
Edited to add: Please see comment from Steve Willson. It seems it is more likely that the bark damage is from Gray Squirrels. We certainly have plenty of those around here! Thank you, Steve.
I have seen deer do this, to rub their antlers to loosen them or to rub the velvet off or get things off them. BUT I have also seen something similar and it was a mountain lion! Here's hoping it was just deer!
ReplyDeleteIt could have been done by a Gray Squirrel. They often pull off strips of bark to use in their nests. Usually, if it is done by deer you will find most of the bark on the ground at the base of the shrub and if it is done by squirrels the bark will be gone.
ReplyDeleteThat makes sense, Steve. We have plenty of Gray Squirrels here and there is no bark on the ground. You've solved another mystery for us! Thank you.
ReplyDelete