What type of damage can wildlife cause to cotton crops in the first 40 days?

Wildlife can cause significant feeding damage to cotton crops, especially during the early growth stages. In the first 40 days after planting, cotton seedlings are particularly vulnerable due to their small size and tender tissues. Animals such as deer, rabbits, and various insect species may feed on the young plants, leading to a reduction in plant vigor, stunted growth, and even plant death if the damage is severe enough. This feeding can result in decreased yield potential and impact the overall health of the crop, making it crucial for farmers to implement management strategies to mitigate such risks. By focusing on wildlife as a direct threat to young cotton plants, it highlights a critical aspect of pest and crop management in the early lifecycle of cotton cultivation.