Watching deer and hunting is a popular pastime in many parts of the world, especially in the United States. While some people hunt deer for meat, others enjoy watching them roam in their backyard. However, attracting deer to your backyard can be challenging and that’s where backyard deer feeders come in handy. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of backyard deer feeders and why you should consider investing in one.
Benefits of Backyard Deer feeders
1. Easy to Use
One of the most significant benefits of using backyard deer feeders is their easy use. With an automatic deer feeder, you can easily set up a feeding schedule that meets your needs. You can choose the type of feed you want to use and the frequency of feeding. Once you’ve set up the feeder, you only have to sit back and watch the deer enter your backyard.
2. Attract More Deer
A deer feeder is a perfect solution if you want to attract more deer to your backyard. Deer’s are naturally attracted to food and a well-placed feeder can bring them right to your doorstep. By providing a reliable food source, you can attract more deer to your property and enjoy watching them in their natural habitat.
3. Supplemental Nutrition
Backyard deer feeders can also provide supplemental nutrition to the deer in your area. During the winter months, when food is scarce, a deer feeder can be a lifesaver for local deer populations. By providing a consistent food source, you can help ensure that the deer in your area are healthy and well-nourished.
4. Convenient Viewing
Another benefit of backyard deer feeders is that they provide a convenient viewing experience. By setting up a feeder in your backyard, you can enjoy watching deer from the comfort of your home. You don’t have to travel to a specific location or sit in a cold deer blind to see deer. With a deer feeder, you can watch them right from your living room window.
5. Educational Opportunity
Backyard deer feeders can provide an excellent educational opportunity for kids and adults alike. You can learn about their behavior, feeding habits and social interactions by watching deer in their natural habitat. You can also use a deer feeder to teach children about the importance of wildlife conservation and the role humans play in protecting natural habitats.
Tips for Setting Up and Maintaining a Backyard Deer Feeder
1. Location is Key
When setting up a backyard deer feeder, location is key. You want to place the feeder where deer can easily find it in a spot that is not too visible from the road or neighboring properties.
2. Keep it Clean
It’s important to keep your deer feeder clean to prevent the spread of disease and the growth of mold. Clean the feeder regularly using soap and water and consider using a disinfectant spray to keep it clean and safe for the deer.
3. Use Quality Feed
When choosing feed for your deer feeder, using high-quality, nutritious food is important. Corn is a popular choice, but you can also use other types of feed, such as protein pellets, oats, and alfalfa. Verify that the feed has not gone stale or rotten.
4. Consider Predators
Deer’s are vulnerable to predators, such as coyotes, bobcats, and even domestic dogs. Make sure to place the feeder where deer can see predators coming and consider using a fence or barrier to protect the feeding station.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Backyard Deer Feeder
1. Type of Feeder
Several types of deer feeders are available on the market, including gravity feeders, spin feeders and trough feeders. Each type has pros and cons, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
2. Capacity
Think about how big your feeder is and how much it can hold. While a larger feeder means less refilling, it can be more cumbersome and more expensive to purchase. A smaller feeder may be easier to transport but must be refilled more frequently.
3. Construction
When choosing a deer feeder, consider the construction and durability of the feeder. It’s important to invest in a feeder that is built to last and can withstand the elements and wildlife.
4. Cost
Depending on factors such as size, quantity, and features, deer feeders can cost anywhere from several hundred to well over a thousand dollars. When purchasing, consider how much money you have available and how much you are willing to spend.
Conclusion
Investing in a backyard deer feeder is an excellent way to attract deer to your property, provide supplemental nutrition and enjoy the convenience of deer watching from the comfort of your home. With an automated feeder, you can easily set up a feeding schedule, sit back and watch the deer come to you. Whether you’re a hunter, wildlife enthusiast or enjoy watching deer, a backyard deer feeder is a worthwhile investment.
