Timberpig Ive been doing alot of this type of tree cutting lately. I just got done select cutting around 3-4 acres of mostly elms and maple and leaving the oaks, walnut and hickory. Two years ago I cut about a 1/2 acre area in the center of this same area and quit because it looked so destructive as I cut the trees at chest height and let them fall and remain connected to the main trunk. Well after two years I wish I would have went ahead and cut it all back then as the small area has really grown up thick with briars and the cut trees now look like bushes. As far as what trees to cut for browse for deer preference goes I didnt really think of it that way as Im sure some trees are more preferred and will be used first but most all will be browsed if the deer really need the food.

As far as when to cut I prefer now to avoid stressing the tree before the sap has moved up the to produce leaves. When you get done it looks like a tornado went through so you may second guess yourself, but in a few years youll be happy you cut and so will the deer.