What animals eat cheatgrass?

Cheatgrass is consumed by various herbivores, including deer, elk, rabbits, and livestock such as sheep and cattle. These animals are attracted to cheatgrass for its tender young shoots, particularly in the spring. However, cheatgrass can become less palatable as it matures and dries out, leading some animals to avoid it later in the season. Ground-nesting birds may also benefit from the seeds of cheatgrass.