The Best Way to Feed Deer

Deer are wild animals that depend on natural elements for food and survival. Deciding to feed deer will cost any homeowner time and money. While feeding deer may seem easy, there are several essential components to know so your feeding practices are safe and successful. Contact your local government department of fish and wildlife for additional details--as guidelines and regulations differ from state to state.

Things You'll Need

  • Feeder
  • Salt block
  • Seeds
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a feeding area at least a half acre from your house. Display any feeders or food amid natural foliage--fir, spruce, maple trees, etc.--or along the perimeter of the woods. Deer tend to travel along the outskirts of wooded areas because of unobtrusive pathways and for immediate protection in the event they must disappear back into the forest.

    • 2

      Fill a feeder with foods that are natural to the deer. Hang feeders on stable tree limbs at about 5 feet off the ground. Refill feeders once a week and have enough food to last at least 120 consecutive days--or the four months of winter. Choose acorns or beechnuts, for example, as feed. Never feed a deer food solely designed for human consumption. Abrupt changes to the eating habits of a deer can result in sickness or death.

    • 3

      Place a salt block on an old stump or nearby rock at the same distance away from your house. Salt licks are less expensive than feed and provide organic nutrients to a deer who partakes. Keep salt licks off the ground to prevent dirt and other contaminants from saturating the block.