Moose, deer, and elk are herbivorous animals that can significantly impact their habitats. One of their notable behaviors is the stripping of cambium from trees. The cambium is a thin layer of tissue found just beneath the bark, responsible for the growth of new wood and bark.
Why They Strip Cambium:
The primary reason these animals strip cambium is to access its nutritious content. The cambium layer is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, providing essential nutrients, especially during times of scarcity.
- Nutritional Value: Cambium is particularly important during the winter months when other food sources are limited. It offers a valuable energy source that helps sustain these large animals.
- Antler Growth: For deer and elk, access to rich nutrients in the cambium supports antler growth. Antlers require a high amount of calcium and phosphorus, which can be partially derived from tree bark and cambium.
When They Strip Cambium:
Cambium stripping is most commonly observed during late winter to early spring. During these periods, natural forage is scarce, and the nutritional needs of moose, deer, and elk increase.
- Winter: As snow covers the ground, accessing grasses and shrubs becomes difficult. Trees provide a reliable alternative source of nutrition.
- Spring: In early spring, before new vegetation emerges, cambium remains an important dietary component.
What the Signs Look Like:
The signs of cambium stripping can vary depending on the species and the tree type. Here are some common indicators:
- Moose: Moose typically target young trees and saplings, using their large size and strength to strip the bark off the trunks. The resulting damage is often extensive, with large, irregular patches of bark removed. The exposed cambium and wood can be seen, and the stripped area may have jagged edges from the moose’s teeth.
- Deer: Deer usually target smaller trees or branches. The damage they cause is more uniform, with neat, horizontal strips of bark removed. Deer often leave behind distinct teeth marks and grooves in the wood as they scrape away the cambium.
- Elk: Elk cause similar damage to that of moose but may also target larger trees. The stripped areas are typically broad and can be several feet off the ground due to their height. Elk can remove large sections of bark, leaving behind rough, peeled areas with visible bite marks.