As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across the Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and its interactions with various animals. While this tree generally has low palatability for grazers, there are certain circumstances and times of the year when animals do consume it.
Livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats, are known to consume Tree-of-heaven under specific conditions. However, it is important to note that this tree is not a preferred food source for them and is often considered a last resort. Goats, in particular, have been observed to eat both the leaves and bark of the Tree-of-heaven. This could be due to their browsing behavior and their ability to consume a wider variety of plants compared to other livestock.
Deer, on the other hand, are more likely to browse on the leaves of Tree-of-heaven during the summer months. This browsing activity is more commonly seen in shady, forested areas where this tree often thrives. It is important to mention that deer do not heavily rely on Tree-of-heaven as a food source and typically have other preferred forage options available to them.
I have personally observed instances where goats have consumed Tree-of-heaven leaves and bark when other vegetation was scarce. During dry seasons or in areas with limited grazing options, goats may resort to eating parts of this tree. Similarly, I have noticed deer browsing on the leaves of Tree-of-heaven in shaded areas of forests during the summer months.
While Tree-of-heaven may be consumed by goats and deer in certain situations, it is essential to consider the potential negative impacts of this tree. Tree-of-heaven is an invasive species in many regions and can quickly spread, outcompeting native vegetation. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to encourage its consumption by animals, as this can inadvertently contribute to its spread.
While Tree-of-heaven has low palatability for most grazers, goats have been observed to eat both the leaves and bark, and deer may browse on the leaves during the summer months. However, it is important to be cautious about promoting the consumption of this tree, as it is considered invasive and can negatively impact native plant communities.
