Deer Supplementation
Providing supplemental protein to deer herds can significantly impact the population’s health and productivity. Supplemental feeding can help increase the body weight of deer, which can have a positive impact on their reproductive success. Deer with higher body weights have a greater chance of survival during harsh winter months and are more likely to produce healthy offspring. Additionally, supplemental feeding can help reduce the occurrence of disease and parasites within the herd. Well-fed and healthy deer are less likely to contract and spread disease, which can ultimately lead to a more sustainable population. Proper body condition is also a key factor in a Buck’s antler development. A Buck’s number one priority is his physical condition; surviving a harsh winter is one of the most vulnerable times in a buck’s life cycle. Quality food sources are at a minimum during this timeframe. A supplemental food program can give a buck what he needs to survive. When a buck comes into the spring with better body condition, any extra energy will go directly into antler development. A good rule of thumb, a healthier buck will have optimum antler development, maximizing his greatest potential.
Another benefit of providing supplemental protein to deer herds is that it can help reduce the impact of deer on their environment. Overgrazing is a significant concern in areas with high deer populations, and it can have a negative impact on the ecosystem. When deer consume too much vegetation, it can reduce the amount of food available for other animals, ultimately leading to a decline in biodiversity. Providing supplemental protein to deer makes them less likely to overgraze on vegetation, which can help maintain a healthy ecosystem.
WHEN TO INTRODUCE PROTEIN TO YOUR HERD
The best time to start introducing supplements to a deer herd depends on a number of factors, including the local environment, the age and sex of the deer, and the time of year. Generally, the ideal time to start introducing supplements is during the spring and summer, when deer require higher protein levels and other essential nutrients to support growth and development.
- Deer require a high in protein diet to maintain optimal health and fitness.
- High-quality food sources, such as food plots and supplemental protein, can help fulfill a deer’s needs when the native landscape can’t provide it for them
- Conducting regular surveys and working with your neighbors and wildlife managers can help ensure that deer populations remain healthy and sustainable.
- The best time to start introducing supplements to a deer herd is during spring and summer when deer require higher protein levels and other essential nutrients to support growth and development.
- Monitoring the health and condition of the deer herd closely after introducing supplements is important to ensure that the herd is adjusting well and receiving the proper nutrition.
- Getting a deer to begin consumption of supplemental protein can be a harder task in certain areas. We recommend your favorite attractant blended within or covering your supplement until your deer get used to it (corn, rice bran, roasted soybeans)
WHAT TYPES OF SUPPLEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE
Several different types of protein supplements are available on the market today, including protein pellets, blocks and tubs. These supplements are typically made from a combination of soybean meal, corn, and other grains and are designed to provide deer with a highly concentrated source of protein. We are loyal supporter of Rack Elite tubs, a product we currently distribute for across the US.
