Leucaena As a Feed Component for White-Tailed Deer‪.‬

Abstract. -- Leucaena (Leucaena sp.) is a potential forage component in supplemental feed for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in southern Texas. This study compared white-tailed deer (five to eight months of age) preference and growth rates when consuming a standard deer pellet and a pellet with 35% leucaena. Digestion trials were conducted with each pellet type to further explain the results. White-tailed deer preferred (P 0.001) standard pellets over leucaena pellets when given equal access to each pellet type. Growth rates did not differ (P = 0.212) between pellet types. Leucaena pellets contained more nitrogen but the nitrogen was not as digestible; therefore, nitrogen balance of the two diets did not differ. Leucaena at 35% of the diet is a viable component of supplemental feed for white-tailed deer, although deer may be reluctant to consume it initially. **********