Deer are one of the most majestic species of animals in North America. They can be found all over America, and many people like having them on their land. There are also a lot of people who work in preservation and try to bolster the deer population. Of course, they’re also the main source of protein for a lot of people, so they’re one of the most hunted animals in America. Whether the goal is preservation or hunting, the idea is to help build up a deer population. One of the best ways to do this is to ensure that the deer have plenty to eat so that they make a habitat. Deer feeders can accomplish a lot, but people don’t generally know a lot about them. Here are some things you should know about deer feeders.
Different Feeders Serve Different Purposes
A deer feeder and deer bait are two different things entirely. A feeder is a mechanism that holds any sort of food a deer might eat. Generally speaking, this is some variety of grain or other deer feed. The idea here is to feed the deer so that they create a habitat in the area. Knowing they have a food source, the deer will stick around, breed naturally, and the population is going to grow. Because their food source is reliable, they’re likely not going to leave. Other feeders can be used to increase the game on hunting grounds. It’s important to keep in mind what kind of feeder you’re looking for before making a decision.
Not All Feeders are Made the Same
Feeders are also made of different materials, and that certainly matters. In most places you would put a feeder, it’s open and exposed to all the elements. If you get any type of feeder that uses wood in any way, it’s likely going to mildew and rot very quickly. Flimsy plastic is also a go-to for bottom-shelf feeder systems that funnel food into a bucket. This is another type of feeder that most likely isn’t going to last long at all. You want something very sturdy and able to hold up to the elements.
Different Feeding Styles Matter
Just like there are many different types of deer subspecies, there are also many different types of feeders. You have automatic feeders, funnels, manual bucket feeders, and more. The most reliable type of feeder is going to be a trough feeder. You can fill this up easily, and it usually opens and closes on each side so that you can shut off the food supply when needed. These feeders are also typically made of high-quality materials that are going to hold up very well when exposed to the elements.
It Matters Where You Put Them
Most people who use deer feeders are trying to feed the deer. As mentioned previously, these devices aren’t used to bait. However, that doesn’t stop some people from poaching around areas where they might find feeders. They assume if they find feeders, they’re going to find deer, and thus you may end up with some people on the land hunting illegally. This is something of which you need to be aware. Not only is this important information related to the safety of the deer in the area, but also for you, your children, or any other people who may walk around the area. Illegal poachers aren’t known for their safe hunting practices, and if they’re on the land looking to bag a deer quickly, they might shoot at anything that moves. Keep this in mind and always wear reflective material and be careful when in the woods dealing with a feeder.
In Conclusion
If you’re going to purchase a feeder for deer in the area, then it will serve you best to get a high-quality model. If not, you’re better off just dumping grain on the ground, and then at least you’re not wasting money. Quality matters here.
