Deers generally do not eat Hickory nuts because of their hard shells. But, during Winter or Fall, you may see deer go after Pignut Hickory nuts, as those have thinner shells.
Deers eat what is most convenient, and Hickory nuts probably won’t be the case for most Deer. Even though it is technically edible for them, they cannot easily consume the nuts.
If that is one of the few food sources, they may go around the Hickory nuts and try them out but will not eat them.
Deers also like what they’re used to eating – grass, leaves, and some nuts.
By the way, this article we wrote discusses how deer move in the rain – it may surprise you!