How To Put Out Corn For Deer

How to Put Out Corn for Deer: A Guide to Ethical and Effective Feeding

Attracting deer to your property can be a rewarding experience, offering exciting wildlife viewing opportunities. One popular method is putting out corn, but it's crucial to do so responsibly and ethically. This guide will walk you through the best practices for feeding deer corn, ensuring both their well-being and your enjoyment.

Understanding Deer and Their Dietary Needs

Before you start scattering corn, it's vital to understand deer's dietary needs. While corn can be a supplemental food source, it shouldn't be their primary diet. A balanced diet for deer includes a variety of plants, grasses, and browse. Over-reliance on corn can lead to nutritional deficiencies and digestive problems.

The Downsides of Corn-Only Diets

• Nutritional Imbalance: Corn lacks essential nutrients found in a natural diet, potentially leading to health issues.
• Digestive Problems: Too much corn can cause digestive upsets and fermentation in their rumen.
• Dependence and Habitat Degradation: Deer may become overly reliant on the supplemental food source, neglecting natural food sources and potentially damaging the surrounding habitat.
• Attracting Unwanted Animals: Corn can attract other animals, including rodents and potentially larger predators, creating an imbalance in the local ecosystem.

Best Practices for Putting Out Corn for Deer

If you choose to supplement your deer's diet with corn, follow these best practices to minimize negative impacts:

Choosing the Right Corn

• Whole Kernel Corn: This is generally preferred over cracked or processed corn, as it provides better digestive health.
• Non-GMO Corn: Opt for non-genetically modified corn whenever possible.
• Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn and avoid moldy or spoiled corn which could cause illness.

Where and How to Place the Corn

• Location, Location, Location: Place the corn in a relatively secluded area away from roads and human activity. Consider using a designated feeding area away from natural water sources to prevent contamination.
• Quantity Control: Start with small amounts of corn and gradually increase the quantity as needed, avoiding overfeeding. Monitor deer behavior and adjust accordingly.
• Cleanliness is Key: Regularly clean the feeding area to remove spoiled corn and prevent the buildup of waste. This minimizes the risk of disease and attracts unwanted pests.
• Consider Natural Alternatives: Supplementing with other natural food sources, like apples or browse, is a more beneficial approach and helps provide a more diverse diet.

Timing is Everything

• Consistency is Key: Feed deer consistently, particularly during harsh winters or periods of food scarcity. This helps build trust and encourages regular visits, but remember moderation is paramount.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Never provide an excessive amount of corn, leading to health problems and habitat degradation.

Ethical Considerations

Remember that feeding deer is a privilege, not a right. Always prioritize their well-being and the health of the local ecosystem.

Monitor and Adapt

Regularly monitor the deer's health and adjust your feeding strategy as needed. If you notice any signs of illness or changes in behavior, consult a wildlife expert.

Consult Local Regulations

Check with your local wildlife agencies for any regulations or restrictions on deer feeding in your area.

By following these guidelines, you can responsibly and ethically attract deer to your property, providing a supplemental food source while maintaining their health and the integrity of the surrounding ecosystem. Remember that observing deer in their natural habitat is far more rewarding than creating dependence through excessive feeding.