The optimal height of a deer trough feeder will depend on the size of the deer that you are feeding. Generally, a deer trough feeder should be between 18 to 36 inches (45 to 90 cm) in height. If the deer are small, the trough should be lower to the ground, around 18 inches (45 cm) high.
If the deer are larger, the trough should be higher, around 36 inches (90 cm) tall. To make it easier for the deer to access the feeder, you can also put a short ramp or step below the feeder. You should also make sure that the feeder itself is wide enough for multiple deer to access it at the same time.
Do gravity feeders work for deer?
Yes, gravity feeders can absolutely work for deer and are an effective way to provide an easy, consistent food source. Gravity feeders are ideal for deer as they do not require any maintenance or effort, and they can provide a source of nutrition to the animals over a long period of time.
Gravity feeders work by holding feed in a container above the ground, and the food is released through a valve at the bottom of the feeder. Gravity helps to keep the feed in the container, allowing it to dispense slowly over time.
This slow release of feed attracts the deer and provides them with a steady source of food. Additionally, deer can eat the feed at their own leisure, as gravity feeders are usually equipped with a timer that will dispense the food at regular intervals.
This makes it convenient for deer to graze and feed on the food whenever they need. Gravity feeders can be beneficial for hunters as well, as they allow them to scout for deer easier, as deer are more likely to be attracted by the feeder and stick around for a long period of time.
How long does it take for deer to eat out of gravity feeder?
The amount of time it takes for deer to eat out of a gravity feeder can vary greatly, depending on the type and size of feeder, the quantity of feed, and the age and number of deer. Generally, it will take multiple trips from a deer to a gravity feeder to consume enough feed for its daily needs.
Generally speaking, deer will typically consume around two to four pounds of feed from gravity feeders in one visit. Therefore, if there are multiple deer in an area, it can take an hour or two for them to all get their fill from the same feeder.
In general, the more plentiful the feed and the larger the feeder, the more deer can be served and the more quickly they can all be fed.
Are deer feeders worth it?
Yes, deer feeders can be well worth it. Studies have shown that supplemental feeding can increase winter survival and reproductive success in some deer herds. Properly managed, supplemental feeding can result in healthier deer and stronger local deer populations.
That being said, feeders are not the only factor that should be considered when trying to increase local deer populations. Supplemental feeding is beneficial when part of a larger management plan that includes habitat management, predator control, and sound harvest regulations.
If a landowner is only using supplemental feeding, they may not obtain the full benefits of a more comprehensive management strategy, as deer may become too dependent on the feeders.
Do feeders scare big bucks?
No, feeders do not typically scare off big bucks. Feeders can help to attract and draw deer to a certain area, creating better hunting opportunities for the hunter. Since feeders are commonplace in many hunting spots, deer of all sizes typically become accustomed to their presence and do not associate them as something dangerous and flee.
That being said, big bucks may avoid an area that has a lot of foot and vehicle traffic, as these are more likely to be associated with people, which could be detrimental to the them. As such, feeders should never be placed in a spot that has a high amount of traffic, and hunters should avoid making too much noise when setting up feeders and entering the woods in general.
What is the cheapest thing to feed deer?
The cheapest thing to feed deer is fresh vegetables and grass. Many types of vegetables are safe to feed deer, including carrots, apples, alfalfa sprouts, corn, and zucchini. Vegetables and grass provide important nutrients for the deer and are essential for their health and wellbeing.
It is also important to note that some vegetables may not be good for deer to consume, such as cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli, so it is important to research which vegetables are safe for deer to eat.
Additionally, hay, leaves, and small shrub branches can be fed to deer, as they provide them with fiber, minerals, and other nutrients that they need. It is also important to make sure that the hay or leaves are pesticide-free, as certain pesticides can be fatal to deer.
What do deer like to eat the most?
Deer prefer to feed mainly on plants and vegetation. Their preferred food sources vary depending on the season and the climate of their habitat. Commonly eaten plants include alfalfa, clover, grass, shrubs, fruit, mushrooms and bark.
In more temperate climates, where food is more readily available, deer will browse a variety of herbs, shrubs and grasses. They are also known to eat agricultural crops, such as alfalfa and corn, when available in their range.
During the fall, deer particularly enjoy munching on acorns and other nuts. During the winter, deer will feed on evergreens, succulent plants and dry forage. Some deer will also feed on invertebrates, small mammals and carrion.
In the warmer months of the year, they will also consume a variety of wildflowers and the tender tips of branches and twigs.
What do deer feed on in winter?
Deers vary in their food choices depending on the region they inhabit and the season, but they typically feed on grasses, sedges, leaves, twigs, fruits, and nuts. During the winter months, when food is scare, they can also feed on various buds, bark, and woody plants.
They also rely on forbs, or wildflowers, for additional nutrition for some of their dietary needs. In addition, deer rely heavily on acorns and other nuts from oak trees during the winter. During extreme cold spells, deer have been known to feed on shrubs and evergreens, as well as garden vegetables.
Lastly, deer will sometimes resort to scavenging through human garbage or pet food in order to satisfy their hunger.
How often do you have to fill a deer feeder?
The frequency of refilling a deer feeder will depend greatly upon the type of feeder you choose, how many deer you are feeding and the amount of food you are putting into the feeder. For example, if you are using a gravity deer feeder, you should check the feeder periodically, maybe once every couple of weeks, to make sure you have enough feed in the feeder.
If you have a large herd of deer feeding from a gravity feeder, you may need to refill it more frequently, such as once a week or even more often. On the other hand, if you have an automatic deer feeder, then you should be able to go a lot longer between refills.
Most automatic deer feeders will hold enough food for several weeks before needing to be refilled again. However, you should still check the feeder periodically to make sure the feed is not getting damp and moldy, or that pests and vermin have not found a way in.
Generally speaking, even with regular refills, you should be able to get a good four to six weeks of deer feeding before needing to refill the feeder again.
When should I put out my deer feeder?
When planning to put out deer feeders, there are several factors to consider for the best success. Generally, you should wait until the late summer or early fall months when the natural food supply begins to dwindle and the deer need more nutrition.
Put out the feeders during an appropriate weather window when the deer are already active and in the area. If you want to take advantage of hunting season, set out the feeders approximately four to six weeks prior to the season opening date.
This ensures a steady stream of deer activity on your property. Be sure to check your local regulations before setting up and maintaining a deer feeder.
How many seconds does it take to set a deer feeder?
The amount of time it takes to set up a deer feeder can depend on several factors, such as the size and type of feeder, where you will be placing it, and the amount of assembly required. Generally, however, it should take anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour to set up a deer feeder.
This includes setting up the frame, attaching any necessary hardware, filling it with feed and securing it in place. If you have already assembled the deer feeder before setting it up, it may take 10 minutes or less to secure the feeder into place.
How do you make a deer feeding trough?
Making a deer feeding trough is an easy project that requires few materials and just a few simple steps. The basic process involves constructing a sturdy, weatherproof wooden box that can hold food, getting the right feeder accessories, and occasionally cleaning and maintaining the trough.
To make the trough, you will need the following materials: plywood, screws, screws with washers, a skill saw, waterproof glue, and a drill. Begin by measuring, cutting, and connecting all the pieces of plywood.
Be sure to create extra seams for added strength and stability. Once the box is assembled, drill four holes in each corner for the screws and washers. Apply the waterproof glue to the seams, and then focus on the screws, making sure they are tight and secure.
Next, get a trough feeder or a gravity-style feeder, and install it inside the box. Your local game store can help you find one, as there are several styles to choose from. Make sure the feeder is sturdy and fits on the box securely.
Then add the feed of your choice to the trough, taking care to not under or overfill it.
Finally, check on the feeding trough regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and take the time to clean it once in a while. This will help keep pests away from the feed and help maintain overall health of deer populations.
Making a deer feeding trough is an easy, rewarding project that will help bring deer closer to your home or campsite.
Are trough feeders good for deer?
Yes, trough feeders are a good choice for deer. Trough feeders are cost-effective, durable, and can be set up to feed deer a wide variety of feed. Trough feeders provide a large area for deer to feed at once, and they can be used to easily provide supplemental feed such as salt, minerals, corn, or protein pellets.
Trough feeders help reduce competition among deer and make it easier to monitor their feeding habits. They also help reduce scattered feed, waste, and general mess in the area. Additionally, trough feeders are easy to clean, maintain, and move.
How long will 50 pounds of corn last in a feeder?
The answer to this question depends on several factors including how frequently the feeder is being refilled and how many animals are using the feeder. Generally speaking, however, 50 pounds of corn should last from 1-2 months if the feeder is maintained regularly and if there are not too many animals using the feeder regularly.
It is important to keep in mind that different animals may have different caloric needs and may consume the food at different rates, so the time frame may need to be adjusted according to the specific needs of the animals.
Additionally, environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can also have an effect on the rate of consumption.
Why do deer stop coming to feeder?
Deer stopping coming to feeders can be caused by a variety of different things. Some of the most common explanations are:
1. Unfavorable Weather Conditions: Deer are extremely sensitive to temperature and precipitation conditions, so if your area has been unusually wet or hot, deer may have gone elsewhere to find food.
2. Predators: Deer are very skittish and sensitive to predation, so if they detect an increased presence of predators, they will not come to feeders.
3. Disturbance: If a deer feels scared or uncomfortable due to noise and activity in an area, they may avoid the feeder altogether.
4. Over-Population: If there is an unusually high number of deer in the area, they may be competing for food and will stop coming to feeders.
5. New Competition: If a new food source becomes available, deer may favor the new option over coming to your feeders.
6. Food Availability: If there is an abundance of natural food sources such as acorns, berries, and nuts, deer may choose to forage for those instead of relying on feeders.
7. Feeder Contamination: If the feeders become contaminated with mold, mold spores, or other toxic substances, deer may not come near them.
How do I attract bucks to my feeder?
Attracting bucks to your feeder can be done by creating a place for them to feed safely and comfortably. Start by providing a high-quality deer feed with essential nutrients, such as protein and fats.
Place the feeder in an open space where there is plenty of available cover and natural food sources. To tempt the bucks, hang a piece of cotton from a nearby tree to create a scent trail leading to the feeder.
Deer are attracted to the smell of yeasty human sweat, so you can also rub down feeder poles with an unscented hand sanitizer to make the area even more appealing to bucks. Additionally, it’s important to let the area around the feeder rest regularly.
You should set up the feeder away from roads and disturbed areas and ensure that the food is being distributed evenly by rotating it into different feeders every few days. Finally, consider adding a salt lick, minerals, and other supplements to further encapsulate the deer’s attention.
With these steps, you should be able to attract bucks to your feeder.
Will mature bucks come to feeders?
Yes, mature bucks will come to feeders. As long as they can access it safely and consistently, they can become regular visitors. Most mature bucks tend to stay away from any sources of human activity and noise, so proper location of the feeder and keeping it away from homes or other areas of human activity and sight is important for successful visits from mature bucks.
Additionally, keeping the feeder out of the sight of roads and areas with a lot of predators is a must for safety. Lastly, keeping the area around the feeder natural and wild will create the feeling of comfort and safety for the deer.
This will encourage them to come out at night and feed. As mentioned, mature bucks typically prefer to stay far enough away from humans as they can and will thus prefer to visit the feeder at night when it’s quieter than during the day.
How many feeders are needed per acre for deer?
The number of feeders needed per acre for deer depends on the condition of the property you are feeding, the number of deer in the area, and the desired outcome you wish to achieve. Generally, the best practice is to have one to two feeders per 5-6 acres of property, but this is dependent on the quality of feed you are offering, the dispersion and type of planting, and the nutritional needs of the area’s deer herd.
If you are offering a higher quality feed, have planted a variety of plants and native vegetation, and the herd is healthy and in balance with the habitat, then one feeder per 8-10 acres may be sufficient.
However, if you are offering a feed with limited protein levels, have limited native vegetation and the herd is undernourished, then two feeders per acre may be necessary. Ultimately, the number of feeders you need varies and should be determined by the goals and needs of your particular environment.