Deer yard

An area used by deer during winter for shelter.  Also called a deer wintering area.  Deer yards are typically comprised of dense softwood cover with a crown closure greater than 65%.  The dense softwoods reduce snow cover within the stand, improving deer mobility and predator avoidance.  Additionally, the dense cover reduces wind speed and insulates the stand, thereby reducing energy cost for thermoregulation.  

Photo of a deer wintering area in northern New Hampshire