DIY Deer Delight: A Comprehensive Guide to Making Homemade Deer Food

Attracting deer to your property can be a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and hunters alike. Providing supplemental food, especially during harsh winters or periods of scarcity, can help support deer populations and improve their overall health. While commercially available deer feeds are readily available, making your own homemade deer food offers several advantages: it’s often more cost-effective, allows you to control the ingredients and nutritional content, and can be a fun and engaging project. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating nutritious and appealing homemade deer food, covering everything from ingredient selection to storage and distribution.

Understanding Deer Nutrition

Before diving into recipes, it’s crucial to understand the nutritional needs of deer. Deer are ruminants, meaning they have a four-chamber stomach designed to digest plant-based materials. Their diet primarily consists of browse (leaves, twigs, and buds), forbs (herbaceous flowering plants), grasses, fruits, and nuts. During different seasons, their nutritional requirements vary:

* **Spring/Summer:** Deer need high-protein and energy-rich foods to support antler growth in bucks and milk production in does. Young, tender vegetation is abundant during this time.
* **Fall:** Deer focus on building up fat reserves for the winter. They consume carbohydrates and fats found in acorns, nuts, and fruits.
* **Winter:** Food is scarce, and deer rely on stored fat reserves and browse. High-fiber foods help maintain rumen function.

Key nutrients for deer include:

* **Protein:** Essential for growth, antler development, and reproduction. Aim for a protein content of 16-20% in your deer food.
* **Carbohydrates:** Provide energy for bodily functions and maintaining body temperature, particularly important during winter.
* **Fats:** Another source of energy and essential fatty acids.
* **Fiber:** Crucial for rumen function and digestion.
* **Minerals:** Calcium, phosphorus, and salt are essential for bone growth, antler development, and overall health.
* **Vitamins:** A, D, and E are important for various physiological processes.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting the right ingredients is paramount to creating a deer food that is both palatable and nutritionally beneficial. Here’s a breakdown of common ingredients and their benefits:

* **Corn:** A readily available and inexpensive source of carbohydrates. Deer are naturally attracted to corn, especially cracked corn. However, it’s important to note that corn is relatively low in protein and can contribute to acidosis if consumed in excess. Therefore, it should be balanced with other protein-rich ingredients.

* **Pros:** High in carbohydrates, readily available, inexpensive, palatable.
* **Cons:** Low in protein, can cause acidosis if overconsumed.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use cracked corn rather than whole kernel corn, as it is easier for deer to digest. Mix with other ingredients to balance the nutritional profile. Limit the quantity of corn to about 40-50% of the total mixture.

* **Oats:** A good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and some protein. Oats are easily digestible and provide sustained energy.

* **Pros:** Good source of carbohydrates and fiber, digestible, provides sustained energy.
* **Cons:** Can be more expensive than corn.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use whole oats or rolled oats. Mix with other ingredients to improve palatability and nutritional value. Can be used as a significant portion of the deer food mixture (up to 30%).

* **Soybeans:** An excellent source of protein and fat. Roasted soybeans are particularly palatable and nutritious.

* **Pros:** High in protein and fat, palatable, nutritious.
* **Cons:** Can be relatively expensive, raw soybeans contain trypsin inhibitors (roasting deactivates them).
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use roasted soybeans or soybean meal. Ensure soybeans are properly roasted to remove trypsin inhibitors. Limit the quantity of soybeans to about 20-30% of the total mixture, as excessive fat intake can cause digestive upset.

* **Alfalfa:** A high-protein legume that is available in hay or pellet form. Alfalfa is rich in vitamins and minerals.

* **Pros:** High in protein, rich in vitamins and minerals.
* **Cons:** Can be dusty, may not be as palatable as other ingredients.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use alfalfa hay or alfalfa pellets. If using hay, chop it into smaller pieces. Mix with other ingredients to improve palatability. Can be used as a significant portion of the deer food mixture (up to 30%).

* **Sunflower Seeds:** A good source of fat and protein. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOSS) are preferred due to their higher oil content.

* **Pros:** Good source of fat and protein, palatable.
* **Cons:** Can be relatively expensive, may attract other animals like squirrels and birds.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use black oil sunflower seeds (BOSS). Mix with other ingredients. Limit the quantity of sunflower seeds to about 10-15% of the total mixture.

* **Apples and Other Fruits:** Deer are naturally attracted to fruits like apples, pears, and berries. Fruits provide carbohydrates and vitamins.

* **Pros:** Palatable, source of carbohydrates and vitamins.
* **Cons:** Can be expensive and perishable, may attract insects.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use fresh or dried fruits. Chop fruits into smaller pieces. Use fruits as a supplementary treat rather than a primary ingredient. Consider using fruit-flavored attractants.

* **Molasses:** A sweetener and binder that improves palatability and helps hold the deer food mixture together. Molasses also provides energy.

* **Pros:** Improves palatability, acts as a binder, provides energy.
* **Cons:** Can be sticky and messy, may attract insects.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use liquid or dry molasses. Add molasses sparingly (about 5-10% of the total mixture) to avoid making the deer food too sticky. Mix molasses thoroughly with other ingredients.

* **Mineral Supplements:** Deer require minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and salt for bone growth, antler development, and overall health. Mineral supplements can be added to the deer food mixture or offered separately in mineral licks.

* **Pros:** Provides essential minerals, improves overall health.
* **Cons:** May not be as palatable as other ingredients.
* **Usage Recommendations:** Use a deer-specific mineral supplement. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage. Mix mineral supplements thoroughly with other ingredients or offer them separately in mineral licks.

Homemade Deer Food Recipes

Here are a few sample recipes for homemade deer food. Adjust the ingredient ratios based on the season, the availability of ingredients, and the specific needs of your local deer population.

**Recipe 1: Basic Deer Mix**

* 50% Cracked Corn
* 25% Oats
* 15% Roasted Soybeans
* 10% Alfalfa Pellets

**Instructions:**

1. Combine all ingredients in a large container.
2. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
3. Store in a dry, airtight container.

**Recipe 2: High-Protein Deer Mix**

* 40% Alfalfa Hay (chopped)
* 30% Roasted Soybeans
* 20% Corn
* 10% Sunflower Seeds

**Instructions:**

1. Chop alfalfa hay into small pieces.
2. Combine all ingredients in a large container.
3. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
4. Store in a dry, airtight container.

**Recipe 3: Winter Energy Boost**

* 40% Cracked Corn
* 30% Oats
* 15% Sunflower Seeds
* 10% Molasses (dry)
* 5% Mineral Supplement

**Instructions:**

1. Combine cracked corn, oats, and sunflower seeds in a large container.
2. Add dry molasses and mineral supplement.
3. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
4. Store in a dry, airtight container.

**Recipe 4: Fruit and Nut Treat**

* 50% Cracked Corn
* 20% Acorns (cracked)
* 20% Apples (chopped)
* 10% Peanut Butter (optional, use sparingly)

**Instructions:**

1. Crack acorns into smaller pieces.
2. Chop apples into small pieces.
3. Combine all ingredients in a large container.
4. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
5. Use as a supplementary treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Homemade Deer Food

1. **Gather Your Ingredients:** Purchase or collect the ingredients you’ve chosen for your deer food recipe. Ensure that the ingredients are fresh and free from mold or contaminants.
2. **Prepare the Ingredients:** Depending on the ingredients, you may need to prepare them before mixing. This may involve chopping alfalfa hay, cracking acorns, roasting soybeans, or drying fruits.
3. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a large container, combine all the ingredients according to your chosen recipe. Use a shovel or large mixing spoon to thoroughly combine the ingredients.
4. **Mix Thoroughly:** Ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This will prevent deer from selectively eating only their favorite ingredients and help ensure they receive a balanced diet.
5. **Add Molasses (Optional):** If using molasses, add it slowly and mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Be careful not to add too much molasses, as it can make the deer food sticky and attract insects.
6. **Incorporate Mineral Supplements (Optional):** If using mineral supplements, add them to the mixture and mix thoroughly. Ensure that the mineral supplements are evenly distributed throughout the deer food.
7. **Check for Consistency:** The deer food should be a cohesive mixture that doesn’t crumble easily. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a small amount of water or molasses to help bind the ingredients together. If the mixture is too wet, you can add more dry ingredients like corn or oats.
8. **Store the Deer Food:** Store the homemade deer food in a dry, airtight container to prevent spoilage and maintain its nutritional value. A plastic storage bin or a metal drum with a lid is ideal. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Tips for Attracting Deer with Homemade Deer Food

* **Location, Location, Location:** Place the deer food in areas where deer are known to frequent, such as near trails, bedding areas, or water sources. Choose locations that offer some cover and protection from predators.
* **Start Small and Monitor:** Begin by offering small amounts of deer food and monitor how quickly it is consumed. Adjust the amount based on deer activity and consumption rates. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to dependence and health problems.
* **Consistency is Key:** Once you start feeding deer, try to maintain a consistent feeding schedule. This will help deer become accustomed to the food source and rely on it during periods of scarcity.
* **Use Attractants:** Consider using deer attractants like apple scent, acorn scent, or corn scent to lure deer to the food source. These attractants can be sprayed on the deer food or placed nearby.
* **Create Mineral Licks:** In addition to providing deer food, consider creating mineral licks to supplement their mineral intake. Mineral licks can be made by mixing mineral supplements with salt and placing them in a shallow container or on a stump.
* **Consider Trail Cameras:** Set up trail cameras to monitor deer activity at the feeding site. This will help you track the number of deer visiting the site, identify any potential problems, and adjust your feeding strategy accordingly.
* **Comply with Local Regulations:** Be sure to comply with all local regulations regarding deer feeding. Some areas may have restrictions on the type of food that can be used, the location of feeding sites, or the time of year when feeding is allowed.

## Safety Considerations

* **Aflatoxins:** Corn can sometimes be contaminated with aflatoxins, which are toxins produced by molds. These toxins can be harmful to deer and other animals. Purchase corn from reputable sources and inspect it for any signs of mold or discoloration. If you suspect that corn is contaminated, do not use it.
* **Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD):** CWD is a fatal neurological disease that affects deer, elk, and moose. Avoid feeding deer in areas where CWD is known to be prevalent. Feeding deer can concentrate animals and increase the risk of disease transmission. Check with your local wildlife agency for information on CWD in your area.
* **Human Interaction:** Avoid close contact with deer, as they are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Do not attempt to hand-feed deer or approach them closely. This can habituate them to humans and make them more vulnerable to predators or vehicles.
* **Other Wildlife:** Be aware that deer food may attract other wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, and bears. Store deer food in a secure container to prevent access by these animals. If bears are a problem, consider suspending the deer food in a bear-resistant feeder.
* **Ethical Considerations:** While supplemental feeding can benefit deer populations, it’s important to consider the ethical implications. Over-reliance on supplemental food can lead to dependence, nutritional imbalances, and increased risk of disease transmission. Focus on creating a sustainable habitat that provides natural food sources for deer.

## Long-Term Benefits of Supplemental Feeding

While short-term supplemental feeding can provide immediate benefits to deer populations, a long-term approach can yield even greater results. By consistently providing high-quality food and managing habitat, you can improve the overall health and productivity of your local deer herd.

* **Increased Antler Size:** Adequate nutrition is essential for antler growth in bucks. Supplemental feeding can provide the necessary nutrients to maximize antler size and development.
* **Improved Body Condition:** Supplemental feeding can help deer maintain a healthy body weight, especially during harsh winters or periods of drought. This can improve their overall health and resilience to disease.
* **Higher Fawn Survival Rates:** Does that receive adequate nutrition are more likely to produce healthy fawns and provide them with sufficient milk. This can increase fawn survival rates and contribute to population growth.
* **Enhanced Reproductive Success:** Improved nutrition can enhance reproductive success in both bucks and does. This can lead to higher breeding rates and increased fawn production.
* **Reduced Crop Damage:** By providing deer with a reliable food source, you can reduce their reliance on crops and gardens, thereby minimizing crop damage.

## Alternatives to Homemade Deer Food

While making your own deer food can be a rewarding experience, there are also several commercially available deer feeds that offer a convenient and nutritionally balanced alternative. These feeds are typically formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of deer and are available in various forms, such as pellets, blocks, and liquids.

* **Deer Pellets:** Deer pellets are a popular choice for supplemental feeding. They are typically made from a blend of grains, legumes, and mineral supplements and are available in various protein levels. Deer pellets are easy to handle and store and can be fed in feeders or scattered on the ground.
* **Deer Blocks:** Deer blocks are compressed blocks of feed that are designed to be placed in areas frequented by deer. They provide a slow-release source of nutrients and can last for several weeks. Deer blocks are particularly useful in areas where frequent feeding is not possible.
* **Liquid Deer Feed:** Liquid deer feed is a relatively new type of supplemental feed that is designed to be sprayed on vegetation or poured into troughs. It is typically made from a blend of molasses, vitamins, and minerals and is highly palatable to deer.

## Conclusion

Making homemade deer food is a fun, cost-effective, and rewarding way to support your local deer population. By understanding deer nutritional needs, selecting the right ingredients, and following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a nutritious and appealing food source that will benefit deer throughout the year. Remember to prioritize safety, comply with local regulations, and consider the ethical implications of supplemental feeding. With a little effort, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your local deer herd for years to come.