A mineral lick (also known as salt lick or natural lick) is a
natural mineral deposit where animals in nutrient-poor ecosystems
can obtain essential mineral nutrients. In an ecosystem,
salt/mineral licks often occur naturally, providing the sodium,
calcium, iron, phosphorus and zinc required in the springtime for
bone, muscle and other growth in deer and other wildlife, such as
moose, elephants, cattle, woodchucks, domestic sheep, fox
squirrels, mountain goats and porcupines. Harsh weather exposes
salty mineral deposits that draw animals from miles away for a
taste of needed nutrients. It is thought that certain fauna can
detect calcium in salt licks.
