It depends on several factors: the size, age, and appetite of the animals inhabiting the feeder, the rate of spoilage, the size of the feeder and the frequency of refills. For example, a 4-foot feeder with a group of adult beef cattle on pasture may need refilling once every two to three weeks depending on the total feeder capacity and the number of animals being fed.
However, a 20-foot feeder stocked with a flock of chickens may need refilling every two to three days.
Assuming a feeder capacity of 50 pounds, it is reasonable to estimate that 50 pounds of corn would last in a feeder anywhere from two to three days (for a small feeder with chickens) to three to four weeks (for a large feeder with adult beef cattle).
How many pounds are in a 30-gallon feeder?
A 30-gallon feeder typically holds between 400 and 500 pounds of feed. This will depend on the type of feed, as different feeds have different weights and densities. For example, a feed containing high levels of protein or fat will weigh more than a feed with a lower fat or protein content.
The actual weight in the feeder will vary slightly depending on the type of feed and the proportions of the ingredients. Additionally, the size and shape of the feeder can also affect the amount of feed it can hold.
How many pounds of corn does a deer feeder throw?
It depends on the size of the deer feeder. A 50-pound feeder can typically throw around 10-12 pounds of shelled corn every day, but this may vary depending on the size of the feeder, the size of the deer population being fed, and the length of time it takes for the deer to eat all of the feed.
For example, a 100-pound feeder may throw more than 20 pounds of deer feed some days, while a 250-pound feeder may throw upwards of 35 pounds of shelled corn in a single feeding. Additionally, some feeders are designed to spread multiple feedings throughout the day, meaning the total amount of feed thrown may be significantly higher.
How often do you have to refill a deer feeder?
It depends on a few factors such as the size of the feeder, type of feed, local humidity and temperature, and the number of deer coming to feed. Most feeders will require refilling at least twice a month.
Smaller feeders may need refilling weekly, while larger feeders may last for up to a month between refilling. In addition to frequency, the amount of food needed to refill the feeder should be taken into consideration.
Generally, larger feeders will require more feed so it’s important to be mindful of how much is needed for each refilling. Also, if the deer are coming to feed more frequently or in larger numbers, then more food may need to be added to make sure all of the deer are getting enough food.
Finally, make sure to fill the feeder with fresh feed as old feed can spoil quickly, especially in high humidity.
How high should I hang a deer feeder?
Deer feeders should be hung at least 6-8 feet off the ground, depending on the type of feeder. When hanging a deer feeder, aim to hang it high enough to ensure the deer can eat the feed without hindrance, while also preventing other animals such as raccoons, skunks, and squirrels from accessing the feeder.
If possible, it is important to hang the deer feeder in an area that is open and free from trees or other obstructions that can block the deer’s view of the area. Additionally, make sure to hang the feeder at least 40-50 yards away from roads or trails.
Doing this will help to keep deer from getting skittish around roadside activity and encourage them to stay in a larger area.
What time should deer feeders go off?
The best time for a deer feeder to go off will depend on a variety of factors, including the local deer population, the type of deer feeder, and the time of year. Generally speaking, deer feeders should go off in the morning, between 30 minutes before sunrise and an hour after.
This is when deer are most active, and they will be more likely to visit the feeder. During the summer months, it may be helpful to adjust the feeder timers to go off later in the day, as deer are much less active during the hottest parts of the day, and the extra coolness in the evenings will encourage them to feed.
During the winter months, deer may become more active in the late afternoon, so it is a good idea to adjust the feeder timer to accommodate this. Ultimately, understanding the local deer population and their behavior will give you the best chance of setting the optimal timer for your feeder.
Why do deer stop coming to feeder?
First, it could be because the food supply in their natural environment has become more abundant and they no longer need to search for supplemental food. Deer may also stop coming to a feeder if the food source has become contaminated or if the local deer population has grown too large and depleted the food supply.
Additionally, if the feeder has been moved or if it has become damaged and is no longer functioning properly, this could be a factor in why deer are no longer visiting it. It is also possible that free-roaming dogs, cats or other predators are deterring the deer from feeding at the feeder.
Finally, the presence of humans in the area may also cause deer to shy away, as humans can be perceived as a potential threat by wildlife.
Do deer feeders scare big bucks?
Generally, deer feeders do not scare big bucks away. While the presence of a deer feeder might make deer more cautious when first visiting the area, more often than not they quickly become accustomed to the setup and continue to frequent the location.
Deer can become highly dependent on feeders when they are regularly filled, which makes them more comfortable to the presence of a feeder. Furthermore, even large bucks and other large game species will not be scared away from a feeder if it is carefully placed and covert.
Establishing a hunting area around the feeder will also help big bucks and other game feel comfortable coming to the feeder site. When hunting around the feeder, keeping movement to a minimum, being mindful about scent control, using a concealment blind, and ensuring that the feeder setup does not disrupt the natural deer trails that the buck will use can all help to ensure the bucks will not be scared off.
How do I attract deer to my new feeder?
Attracting deer to a new feeder takes patience, planning, and a little know-how. Here are a few tips to help get deer to your new feeder and keep them coming back:
1. Start Slow: Start off slow – don’t set up a huge feeder right away or you might frighten the deer away. A good starting point is to put out a few corn cobs, as this will attract deer as well as other wildlife.
As the deer become comfortable feeding at your new feeder, you can gradually increase the amount of food being offered.
2. Get the Timing Right: Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, so set your timer to disperse the food during these times. This will help to create a consistent pattern of when food is available at your feeder.
3. Choose the Right Location: A key factor in attracting deer to your new feeder will be the location you choose. Make sure it’s away from any busy roads, as well as hiding spots like shrubs and trees.
Keep in mind that deer will naturally take the path of least resistance, so make sure to choose a spot that they can easily access.
4. Choose the Right Feed: Deer are very selective eaters, and certain types of food can be more attractive than others. Corn, soybeans, rolled oats and hay are all commonly used deer feeds.
5. Keep it Clean: To keep the deer coming back to your feeder, make sure to keep it clean and free of any debris. A full feeder with fresh food is more inviting to any hungry deer.
By following these simple steps you’ll be able to attract more deer to your new feeder. With patience and some know-how, you can create a great wildlife watching paradise in your own backyard.
How long does it take for deer to get used to a feeder?
It ultimately depends on the individual deer and how comfortable they feel around the feeder. New feeders should be filled with highly attractive food sources to draw in and lure wild deer. Placing the feeder in a location that is concealed from view can help to make the deer feel secure and allow them to become accustomed to it more quickly.
It usually takes anywhere from a few days to two weeks for deer to become familiar with a new feeder and its contents. Once the deer become comfortable venturing close enough to feed, their natural curiosity and social nature will often cause the rest of the herd to eventually follow.
How do you get deer to come to feeder during the day?
To get deer to come to a feeder during the day, there are several things that you can do. Firstly, you should consider what type of feed you are putting out for the deer. Deer are most attracted to high-energy food sources such as corn and other grains, so if you are able to provide this type of food, you may be better able to attract them during the day.
Secondly, be sure to put the feed out during the early morning and late afternoon. This is just as the sun is rising and setting as deer tend to be more active during these times. Lastly, you also want to make sure that you are providing adequate cover for the deer to feed in during the day.
This can be done by providing trees and shrubs for the deer to feed in and hide under, which will make them more comfortable when they come out to feed. Doing these things can help to increase your chances of getting deer to come to your feeder during the day.
Can you have too many deer feeders?
Yes, it is possible to have too many deer feeders. If there are too many deer feeders located near each other, it can create a situation where there are more deer than the area can support, leading to overpopulation and increased chances of disease transmission.
Additionally, too many deer feeders can draw in other predators such as bears, coyotes and wolves, posing a danger to nearby humans, livestock, and wildlife. Deer feeders can also cause direct harm to the environment by creating disruption of the natural food chain, along with the potential over-enrichment of the soil, resulting in an increase of undesirable plants, such as invasive species.
In addition, if the feed is contaminated, deer can become sick and spread the disease to other deer, making it difficult to manage the population. For these reasons, it is best to limit the number of deer feeders located in an area, as it is difficult to manage the amount of feed available to the deer, along with the presence of predators and possible diseases.
How do I keep squirrels out of my deer feeder?
If you want to keep squirrels out of your deer feeder, there are a few things you can do. You can employ a deterrent, such as a baffle or spinning feeder, to make it difficult or impossible for squirrels to access the feeder.
You can also try mounting the feeder on a pole at least 8 feet off the ground and away from any trees or structures they could use as a platform to reach the feeder. Additionally, you can limit the food supply around the feeder by removing bird feeders, making sure that no other food sources are accessible.
Finally, try to only fill the feeder with enough food that can be consumed in one day to reduce overfeeding and limit visits from squirrels.
How do you hang a deer feeder between two trees?
Hanging a deer feeder between two trees can be a great way to provide supplemental food for deer and other wildlife. Here are the steps to hang a deer feeder between two trees:
1. Find two trees that are a suitable distance apart for the deer feeder. The trees should be at least eight feet apart to allow enough room for the deer feeder between them.
2. Attach the feeder to a rope or chain. The chain or rope should be long enough to span the distance between the two trees, but not too long as it can become a potential hazard.
3. Secure the chain or rope to the two trees. Place a tree stand at the base of each tree and loop the chain or rope around a sturdy branch in each tree.
4. Hang the feeder. Loop the chain or rope around the feeder and lift the feeder into place between the two trees. Adjust the height of the feeder according to the type of feeder you are using.
5. Fill the deer feeder with corn, oats, or other supplemental food. Check the feeder periodically to keep it full and watch for deer activity.
Hanging a deer feeder between two trees can be a great way to provide food for deer and other wildlife in a safe and secure manner. With the right supplies and careful setup, anyone can successfully provide deer with supplemental food.
How do I keep bears away from my hunting area?
To keep bears away from your hunting area, there are a few things you can do. First, ensure your food, trash and other belongings are securely stored and not left unattended. Only bring enough food for the trip, and try to eat a good meal before leaving, so you are not tempted to leave a snack in the woods.
Avoid the use of scented products such as insect repellent, perfume and chapstick, as well as avoid bringing items with fragrances such as foods and drinks. Bears can often be attracted by the smell of food.
Additionally, be sure to properly dispose of your trash and manure to prevent bears from getting a quick snack. If you are camping out at night, keep your campsite clean and free of food smells. Finally, never approach a bear and respect their space.
Make yourself look big and loud, and if a bear does approach, back away slowly.