I live in Oregon and we have deer, and deer and more deer... as well we are the Rhodie capitol and we have several on our property. We live about 10 miles from town and are access is through dirt roads as we are surrounded by BLM land, so we always have deer and elk on our property. I have yet to see the deer touch a Rhodie, so it is interesting that yours are being eaten. Are you sure they are Rhodie and not photinia or perhaps laurels? Just curious because Rhodies aren't that palatable, even to deer. I have seen rhodies that have been used as rubs though. Just interesting and thought I would comment!