If you want to feed the deer that frequently enter your property or want to get involved in a small-scale wildlife sanctuary, there are certain steps you need to follow in order to make that goal a success. Seek information beforehand and be careful before feeding any deer in your area.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Giving the Right Feed
Step 1. Slowly introduce new feed
Deer need 2-4 weeks to adapt to the new feed. So, introduce new feed gradually. Gradually introducing new types of food will help the deer's digestive system learn to digest it. Typically, deer eat woody vegetation found in forests. So, feeding a diet rich in fat and carbohydrates is very dangerous for the deer.
Start introducing new feeds by combining supplemental feed with natural deer feed. Start adding new feed in small portions, then slowly increase the portion until it eventually replaces the deer's natural feed. In winter, the deer's natural food supply is significantly reduced (or even completely depleted). So, it is advisable to start this transition before winter
Step 2. Purchase a mixed-formula feed for deer
Feed-mixed formulas can be obtained at feed manufacturers or pet supply stores. Mixed-formula feeds for deer usually consist of alfalfa, wheat, soy, sugar syrup, and a number of vitamins and minerals. This type of feed is most easily digested by deer so it is an ideal supplemental feed.
Step 3. Give the deer the right feed if you can't find a mixed-formula feed for the deer
You must be careful in providing supplemental feed because deer have a sensitive digestive system. If there is no mixed-formula feed for deer, wheat is the second best option. Wheat provides a safe blend of fiber and carbohydrates and does not interfere with the deer's digestive system.
- A variety of fruits and vegetables – including apples, grapes, cherries, pears, carrots and peas – are commonly eaten by deer. Therefore, all of them are safe for deer to consume.
- Acorns are also another source of food that is safe for deer to eat.
Step 4. Don't feed the deer corn. The digestive system of deer is complex and corn is arguably the worst type of food for deer. Unfortunately, many deer end up seriously ill, and even die because animal lovers believe corn is good food for deer. When suddenly fed corn, the deer die because they are unable to adapt to the high-carbohydrate diet.
Step 5. Prune tree branches for deer to eat
In the wild, deer eat twigs and other natural forest vegetation. To provide a more natural source of food, prune tree branches that are out of reach of the deer. It's one of the safest and most natural ways to feed deer all year round.
Method 2 of 4: Know the Feeding Time
Step 1. Provide feed throughout the winter
Since the natural food source consists of woody vegetation, in winter the deer have more difficulty finding food. That's why many people choose to feed the deer. If you decide to feed the deer during the winter, make sure the type of feed is right and introduce the type of feed gradually.
- Start introducing new food gradually so as not to harm the deer. Start combining supplemental feed with natural ones, which come from woody vegetation. Combining new feeds into natural diets facilitates feed transitions.
- Provide a container / tray for feed in your yard. Position the feed container as far from your house as possible.
- If possible, you should always fill the feed container completely. If that's not possible, set regular meal times. Deer will get used to eating the food you provide, so try to establish a regular feeding schedule. A good time to feed the deer is early in the morning or at dusk.
Step 2. Give the deer supplemental feed year-round
Many people choose to only feed the deer during the winter because that is when the deer's natural food reserves are minimal. However, if possible, consider providing supplemental feed throughout the year. This will help the deer adapt to the supplemental feed so the deer's system is not startled. This method will also teach the deer to combine supplemental feed with natural food sources.
Step 3. Don't stop feeding the deer suddenly
Deer can easily depend on the food provided by humans so that the deer stop browsing for food. If you feed the deer but then stop suddenly (even if you run out of feed temporarily), the deer may starve to death or start bothering you for extra food.
Gradually wean the deer off their supplemental feed so that the deer begin to forage for food again. Reduce the supplemental feed little by little, do not stop immediately
Method 3 of 4: Provide Feed in the Right Location
Step 1. Ensure that feeding wild animals in the area is permitted by law
Feeding procedures for wild animals are often regulated by local laws and environmental commissions, and regulations vary by region. Some provinces/regions only allow feeding on certain dates, otherwise it is prohibited. Find out the regulations in your area via the internet. Some provinces/regions also have regulations that regulate the amount of feed you can give to deer.
Step 2. Find a deer browsing location
Many local wildlife organizations set up feeding areas for deer – deer come to these public places to forage. You can bring feed to these places to help feed the deer without having to do it in your own yard. These organizations usually already know when the right time to feed and the correct amount of feed to provide each time.
Step 3. Feed the deer on your property
If you intend to feed deer on your property, make sure the type of feed is correct and the portions are not excessive. Place the feed container as far from the house as possible so the deer don't approach your house.
- The daily serving of each deer should not exceed 2 kilograms.
- Try not to interact with deer as this can make the deer less afraid of humans and therefore more susceptible to being hunted.
Method 4 of 4: Improving Deer's Natural Habitat
Step 1. Consider planting trees that can feed deer
This is a more natural way to feed the deer and can lighten your daily load on this deer feeding project. This way, you are also helping the environment! Apple, maple, and aspen trees are good food for deer. So, consider planting the tree on your property.
Step 2. Join a local wildlife organization
Joining a local wildlife organization allows you to help deer and other wildlife in the best way possible. If you want to make a difference and really help animals in the long run, it's a good idea to work with a professional.
Step 3. Allow people to hunt in the hunting area
If you live in a hunting area, allow hunters to use your land during the hunting season. Many rural areas are overpopulated with deer, resulting in deer shortages of food. Hunting keeps deer populations in balance with available habitats and minimizes negative impacts on deer habitat, farmers, local residents and motorcyclists.
Warning
- Training deer not to be afraid of humans can harm the deer.
- Deer are often infested with deer ticks which cause Lyme disease! Always check your body carefully after visiting an area frequented by deer.
- Encouraging deer to eat near your home can cause them to damage your garden or yard.
- Feeding deer can damage the deer's natural instincts and harm the environment. Before deciding to feed the deer, first consult your plans with your local wildlife organization.
