There are a variety of things that you can feed deer. One option is to purchase a commercial deer feed which you can find at many stores. Another option is to create your own deer feed mix. Here are a few recipes to try:
1. Mix together equal parts of corn oats and wheat.
2. Mix together one part alfalfa pellets one part corn and one part wheat.
3. Mix together equal parts of ground corn oats and dried beans.
Whichever mix you choose be sure to supplement it with fresh fruits and vegetables. Deer love apples pears carrots and other fresh produce. You can also offer them hay or grass.
If you live in an area where deer are common you may have seen them eating out of bird feeders. If you decide to offer bird seed to deer be sure to get a mix that is heavy on sunflower seeds. Most deer will also eat suet which you can purchase at your local hardware store.
Deer will also eat acorns which they can find on the ground beneath oak trees. If you have an oak tree on your property consider yourself lucky! Not only will the deer enjoy the acorns but the squirrels and other animals will as well.
Of course it’s important to remember that deer are wild animals. As such you should not attempt to hand-feed them. If a deer approaches you back away slowly and give it space. Enjoy watching them from a distance but don’t get too close.
What does a deer eat?
Answer: A deer eats mainly vegetation such as leaves twigs fruits and nuts.
Can a deer digest corn?
Answer: No a deer cannot digest corn.
What is the best time to feed a deer?
Answer: The best time to feed a deer is in the early morning or late evening.
Where is the best place to feed a deer?
Answer: The best place to feed a deer is in a secluded wooded area.
How often should I feed a deer?
Answer: You should feed a deer every day.
What type of food should I avoid feeding a deer?
Answer: You should avoid feeding a deer processed foods as they are not good for their health.
Will feeding a deer attract other animals?
Answer: Yes feeding a deer will attract other animals such as bears coyotes and mountain lions.
Is it legal to feed deer in my state?
Answer: You should check with your state’s wildlife department to see if it is legal to feed deer.
How can I tell if a deer is healthy?
Answer: A healthy deer will have bright eyes a clean coat and no sign of injury.
What should I do if I see an injured deer?
Answer: You should contact your local wildlife department or a wildlife rehabilitation center.
How can I tell if a deer is sick?
Answer: A sick deer will have dull eyes a ruffled coat and may be coughing or sneezing.
What are some common diseases that affect deer?
Answer: Some common diseases that affect deer are chronic wasting disease bovine tuberculosis and meningeal worm.
How can I prevent myself from getting sick after contact with a deer?
Answer: You should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with a deer.
How can I prevent deer from getting into my garden?
Answer: You can prevent deer from getting into your garden by erecting a fence around it.
What should I do if a deer is destroying my garden?
Answer: You should contact your local wildlife department for assistance.
