Have a question about feeding deer? Check the list below for answers to the most common questions. Don't see what you are looking for? Let us know what you need here.
The best way is to go by herd size. We recommend 1 feeding station for every 25 head of deer, or if density is low, at least one feeder for every 400 acres. Research has shown the more feeding stations you can make available, the more deer will utilize supplemental feed.
Deer will generally do best if feeders are placed in transition areas, such as travel corridors or along edges where there is a transition in habitat.
It depends on range and habitat conditions, but deer will typically consume 0.75% -1.5% body weight of Record Rack when it is provided free choice. They will typically consume around 2.5%-3% of their bodyweight if they are being fed a complete diet, such as in a fenced pen.
Pelleted protein feeds are best fed through gravity flow free choice feeders. Golden Deer Nuggets and corn are best fed as attractants through timed spincast feeders.
A spincast feeder filled with a mixture of corn and Golden Deer Nuggets is a great way to get deer in close proximity to a new protein feeder.
Once they are adjusted to the feeder itself, Record Rack protein supplements contain ingredients that deer can smell, and are designed to be the most palatable deer protein supplement available. You do not need to mix with corn or other attractants to get deer to eat it.
This depends on deer density, feeder location, pressure and other environmental factors, however typically it will take 2-3 weeks before deer become comfortable at a new feed site.
This is most likely due a change in the environment, or an improvement in native range conditions. When large mast crops such as acorns, wild berries, fruit or mesquite beans become available deer will also back off on feed.
Hunting pressure or the presence of a native predator such as bobcat, mountain lions or bears can also cause deer to decrease feeder visitation frequency.
With deer, it is all about diversity. Deer are concentrate selectors which means the more variety they have in their diet, the better they will do. We recommend utilizing both feed and food plots in your management program, as deer will utilize both in conjunction with each other and typically benefit more from both vs one alone.
For information on food plots, please visit our partners at Mossy Oak Biologic.
We recommend feeding year round to ensure deer utilize supplemental feed as a significant portion of their diet. Feed is not a replacement for good habitat, but you will see better results if fed year round. Strategic supplemental feeding is beneficial as well though.
We have several different rations that are designed to complement different habitat types and conditions. We also have rations that are designed as a free range supplement to native habitat, while others are complete diets designed make 100% of a deer’s diet.
The best way to find out which best fits your particular operation will be to contact us through our website or get in touch with your local rep.
If you are providing free choice Record Rack protein pellets, you can still provide the Record Rack Mineral free choice, although deer will typically not consume it if free choice protein is available, due to them meeting their mineral requirement through the feed.
Salt is a good attractant and contains essential compounds that can help promote metabolic function. It will also help improve water intake, and the more water an animal will consume, the better off they will be. We recommend putting a salt block out at all permanent water sources.
Do not feed molded feed to deer. Moldy feed can cause some digestive or reproductive issues if consumed, but deer will typically not consume molded feed.
If using feeders, it is a good idea to periodically thoroughly clean out the inside of the feeder to help prevent buildup of feed, which will in turn reduce the possibility of mold building up.
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