Minnesota Deer Hunters Association
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How do Deer Survive Minnesota's Winter Weather?
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Taken From the DNR's question of the week: Q: Winter is tough on everyone, but can be especially difficult for wildlife. How does the cold and snow affect deer, and how do they survive Minnesota’s winter weather?A: Deer begin preparing for winter by shedding their summer coat and replacing it with a heavier winter coat. During a cold snap, they can make the hairs of their fur coat stand erect, which traps air near the skin and increases the insulation value of their winter coat. This is similar to birds fluffing their feathers. Deer store most of their fat reserves during the summer months because the twigs they eat in the winter lack the nutritional value of green vegetation. They tend to migrate to areas with conifer trees such as white cedar, balsam, fir, white spruce or jack pine. Conifers are warmer than trees that shed their leaves because they absorb energy from the sun. And, like most of us, deer also try to limit the amount of time spent out in the elements. As far as how our current winter will affect Minnesota’s deer population, it’s too early to tell. That impact depends on snow depth coupled with how long the snow stays on the ground. - Frank Swendsen, DNR wildlife supervisor |
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