The Marin Humane Society

The black-tailed deer is a sub-species of the mule deer. The doe may have between one and three fawns. The young are born in late spring, or early summer and stay with their mother through the next winter.

Deer are widespread and common. Though they prefer chaparral they will adjust to just about any open space they can find. Canyons surrounded by houses are common places for a small herd of deer. The problems occur when they wander out into the busy street or when they begin choosing your roses over the weeds.

Most people do not object to a deer visitor until it becomes attracted to his/her garden. A regular six-foot fence is a deterrent, but a healthy adult can spring over it in a single bound.

Deer are learning to adapt to the small patches of wilderness in urban districts. And, in a small canyon near the city it is not uncommon to find deer in herds of five to six. How can you keep these graceful mammals from damaging your yard or property?

The best way of controlling deer is fencing. Deer fences should be at least eight-feet high, and if possible, erect the fence slanted out towards the approach area. If the entire yard cannot be fenced in, place fencing around select plants or areas. Fencing for Controlling Deer (circular 514) published by University of California Division of Agricultural Sciences. Write California Department of Fish and Games, 411 Burgess, Menlo Park, CA 94025 to obtain this pamphlet.
Plant shrubs and trees that are known to be deer-resistant. For a complete list of plants and trees that are deer-resistant, write for Gardening to Discourage Deer Damage, at The Resources Agency, California State Department of Fish and Game, Resources Building, 1416 Ninth Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Repellents can be successful, but instructions must be carefully followed. Remember, a repellent does not protect new growth, and may be washed off with dew or sprinklers. Below is a listing of a few commercial repellents. No endorsement of name products is intended, nore is criticism implied of similar products not recommended.