How To Put Out Deer Corn

How to Put Out Deer Corn: A Guide to Attracting Deer Ethically and Effectively

Deer corn, also known as white corn, is a popular attractant for deer. Putting it out strategically can significantly increase your chances of spotting these majestic creatures. However, it's crucial to do so responsibly and ethically to avoid attracting unwanted attention or harming the deer. This guide will walk you through the best practices for putting out deer corn, ensuring both your safety and the well-being of the deer.

Choosing the Right Location

The placement of your deer corn is paramount. Poor placement can lead to wasted corn and potentially unsafe situations.

Key Considerations:

• Concealment: Choose a spot that offers natural cover, shielding the corn from direct sunlight and providing the deer with a sense of security. Bushes, trees, and tall grasses are ideal. Avoid open areas where deer are easily visible and vulnerable to predators.
• Accessibility: Ensure the location is easily accessible for you to refill the corn feeder, but also relatively inaccessible to humans. Avoid placing it near roads or trails.
• Wind Direction: Consider the prevailing wind direction. Deer have a keen sense of smell, and the wind should carry the scent away from human activity.
• Water Source: Deer need a water source nearby. Ideally, your chosen location is near a natural water body or a reliable water source.
• Legal Regulations: Always check your local and state regulations regarding feeding deer. Some areas may have restrictions or outright bans.

Choosing the Right Feeder

There are numerous types of deer corn feeders available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Feeder Types:

• Hopper Feeders: These are simple and inexpensive, but can be easily emptied by squirrels and other animals.
• Spin Feeders: These feeders dispense corn slowly, reducing waste and preventing other animals from accessing it easily.
• Gravity Feeders: These are similar to hopper feeders but offer a larger capacity.
• Platform Feeders: These are open-top feeders that provide ample space for many deer to feed simultaneously.

The best feeder type depends on your budget, the size of your deer population, and the level of pest control you require.

How Much and How Often

Overfeeding can lead to several problems, including:

• Dependence: Deer may become overly reliant on the supplied corn, neglecting their natural foraging habits.
• Health Issues: Too much corn can lead to digestive problems and nutritional imbalances in deer.
• Attracting Unwanted Animals: Large quantities of corn can attract unwanted animals, creating competition for the food and potential hazards.

A good rule of thumb is to start with a small amount and monitor how much is consumed. Adjust accordingly, ensuring you're not leaving excessive amounts. Regularly replenish the feeder, but avoid overfilling it.

Ethical Considerations

Responsible deer feeding is vital.

Important Considerations:

• Disease Transmission: Avoid feeding deer if there is a known disease outbreak in the area.
• Habitat Management: Supplementation should be viewed as a temporary measure. Focus on habitat improvement for long-term deer health.
• Predator Attraction: Be mindful that feeding deer can attract predators, potentially putting the deer at risk.
• Property Lines: Always obtain permission before placing deer feeders on land you don't own.

Maximizing Your Chances of Seeing Deer

By following these guidelines, you can significantly increase your chances of observing deer without harming them or causing ecological imbalance. Remember: patience and observation are key. Avoid making sudden movements and try to blend into your surroundings for the best viewing experience.

By combining strategic placement, responsible feeding habits, and an awareness of ethical considerations, you can enjoy the rewarding experience of observing deer while contributing to their well-being.