Contents
Deer and rabbits are known for their voracious appetites and can cause significant damage to gardens and crops. This article investigates whether deer and rabbits consume rhubarb, a popular vegetable often grown in home gardens.
Rhubarb Overview
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial vegetable characterized by its long, fleshy stalks and large, deeply lobed leaves. The stalks are commonly used in cooking, particularly in pies and jams, due to their tart flavor. Rhubarb leaves, however, are inedible due to their high content of oxalic acid, which can be toxic to humans and animals.
Deer Feeding Habits
Deer are herbivores with a diverse diet that includes grasses, leaves, buds, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They are known for their ability to adapt to different habitats and food sources. Deer may be attracted to rhubarb due to its availability and the presence of edible stalks. However, the high levels of oxalic acid in rhubarb leaves make them unpalatable to deer.
Rabbit Feeding Habits
Rabbits are also herbivores and have a preference for succulent plants and vegetation. They may be attracted to rhubarb due to its fleshy stalks and the presence of edible leaves. However, similar to deer, the high oxalic acid content in rhubarb leaves deters rabbits from consuming them.
Rhubarb and Wildlife Interactions
In natural settings, deer and rabbits have been observed interacting with rhubarb plants. However, there is limited scientific evidence to suggest that they actively consume rhubarb. Anecdotal evidence indicates that deer and rabbits may occasionally nibble on rhubarb stalks, but they typically avoid the leaves due to their toxicity.
Mitigation Strategies
To protect rhubarb plants from potential damage by deer and rabbits, several mitigation strategies can be employed:
- Physical Barriers: Fencing or netting can be used to create a physical barrier around rhubarb plants, preventing access by wildlife.
- Repellents: Commercial or homemade repellents can be applied to rhubarb plants to deter deer and rabbits.
- Companion Planting: Planting companion plants that are unpalatable to deer and rabbits can help deter them from approaching rhubarb plants.
Conclusion
Based on available scientific studies and anecdotal evidence, it is unlikely that deer and rabbits regularly consume rhubarb. The high levels of oxalic acid in rhubarb leaves make them unpalatable and potentially toxic to these animals. However, it is important to note that deer and rabbits may occasionally nibble on rhubarb stalks, especially when other food sources are scarce. Implementing mitigation strategies can help protect rhubarb plants from potential damage by wildlife.
References
FAQs
;Do deer eat rhubarb?
;
Deer may occasionally nibble on rhubarb stalks, especially when other food sources are scarce. However, the high levels of oxalic acid in rhubarb leaves make them unpalatable and potentially toxic to deer, so they typically avoid consuming them.
;Do rabbits eat rhubarb?
;
Similar to deer, rabbits may occasionally nibble on rhubarb stalks. However, the high oxalic acid content in rhubarb leaves deters rabbits from consuming them.
;Is rhubarb toxic to deer and rabbits?
;
Yes, rhubarb leaves are toxic to deer and rabbits due to their high oxalic acid content. Ingesting large amounts of rhubarb leaves can lead to kidney failure and even death.
**
;How can I protect my rhubarb plants from deer and rabbits?
;
Several strategies can be employed to protect rhubarb plants from deer and rabbits, including:
- Physical Barriers: Fencing or netting can be used to create a physical barrier around rhubarb plants, preventing access by wildlife.
- Repellents: Commercial or homemade repellents can be applied to rhubarb plants to deter deer and rabbits.
- Companion Planting: Planting companion plants that are unpalatable to deer and rabbits can help deter them from approaching rhubarb plants.