Rural gardens are often visited by deer, particularly the little muntjac, sometimes called the barking deer because its call is like a loud, hoarse bark. A fence at least 6 feet (1.8 m) high is the only sure defense against deer. Surround new plants with wire netting for a couple of years or until they are well established. There are tree guards available which are biodegradable and decompose after the plant is big enough to fend for itself.
Grey squirrels consume bird food and can damage young shrubs and trees. Wire netting makes a good shield, but keeping food away is more difficult.
Site bird tables several yards away from trees, posts and roofs, from where squirrels can make a flying leap. Make feeding sites harder to reach by running a clothes line between two trees or posts, with a cookie jar at each end as a baffle, which is a device used for deterring squirrels and other unwanted garden creatures. Hang bird feeders and a table in the middle. The squirrels are bound to reach the food eventually, but at least their antics will keep you entertained.
Always opt for the methods mentioned above rather resorting to poisons or harmful traps.
PapillonPictures/iStockphoto
Deers, like the muntjac, are common visitors to rural gardens.
