Did you know that bucks can grow up to 200 inches of antlers in a year? Yes, that is possible if they get the right nutrition from the best deer protein feed.
When it comes to supporting deer health and antler growth, the best deer protein feed plays a critical role.
Protein is a key foundation in deer health and antler growth. It ensures they are strong and healthy especially during key seasons.
You should be aware as a hunter or a wildlife enthusiast that the best deer protein feed plays a crucial role in the entire deer lifestyle.
Providing the right protein feed can significantly improve the size and health of your deer population.
That is why we will explore the essence of protein in deer health and antler development in this article.
We will provide you with the top 12 best deer protein feeds to ensure your deer are healthy, strong, and sporting impressive antlers.
Why Protein is Crucial for Deer Health and Antler Growth
The Role of Protein in Deer Development
Protein is essential for deer, particularly for bucks during their antler-growing season, which typically occurs from late winter to summer. Deer require 16%–20% protein intake for optimal health during this time.
Protein supports muscle development, tissue repair, and overall deer health. Bucks use protein to grow dense, durable antlers, which are crucial during the rut when they compete for mates.
Deer can struggle to maintain body condition, and bucks may grow smaller, weaker antler without adequate protein
Deer with sufficient protein levels have better immune function, reproductive success, and muscle mass retention. High-quality protein feeds can help deer recover from winter weight loss and prepare them for the rigors of the rut.
Aside from antler growth, protein basically supports the deer’s entire well-being
Top 12 Best Deer Protein Feeds For Deer Health And Antler Growth
Find below the top 12 protein feeds, with their unique benefits that can boost deer health and promote robust antler growth.
1. Soybean Meal
Soybean meal is one of the highest-protein feeds available, It contains around 48% protein, and an excellent nutrient for antler growth and muscle development.
Useful during pre-antler growth in late winter through early summer, that is when bucks begin to grow their antlers.
Soybean meal also provides energy, making it a highly effective feed for the rut.
2. Purina AntlerMax Deer 20
This high-protein feed (20%) is specifically formulated to support antler growth and overall health.
You can use it all year-round, particularly in spring and summer.
It also contains essential minerals and vitamins that promote reproductive health and immune function.
3. Alfalfa Pellets
One of the best deer protein feeds that is rich in both protein (around 16%) and fiber, alfalfa pellets are easily digestible for deer, and boost muscle mass.
The best time to use it is spring and summer, when bucks need extra protein to maximize antler growth.
This feed is naturally attractive to deer and can be mixed with other grains for a balanced diet.
4. Cottonseed
This feed is one of the best and excellent options for deer overall body condition and antler growth. Cottonseed is high in both protein (23%) and fat.
It is best useful in early spring and pre-rut.
Caution: Cottonseed should be used in moderation due to its high fat content.
5. Record Rack Fawn Starter & Sportsman’s Choice Record Rack
Specifically designed to support fawn development, this feed also promotes muscle growth and antler development in adult bucks.
It is useful all year-round, especially during the growth period.
Additional benefits: High in vitamins and minerals that support immune function and reproductive health.
You can find other deer products on record rack
6. West Deer Feed
West Deer Feed is one of the best deer feeds that is specially designed for deer, it is a balanced feed with 18% protein. It highly supports antler growth and body condition.
Best use in spring through summer, preferably before rut and antler growth.
It also contains minerals essential for bone development and antler growth.
7. Big Tine 30-06 Protein Plus
This is one of the best deer protein feeds with 30% protein content. is packed with the nutrients bucks need and specially designed for superior antler growth.
Best use in spring and early summer.
Big Tine also contains a blend of grains, providing deer with both energy and nutrition.
8. Peas (Field or Austrian Winter)
Naturally, Peas are high in protein, and contain around 25% protein content, making them a well known best deer protein feed for antler growth and muscle development.
Often used around late winter through early spring for maximum results.
Additional Advantages: Peas are easy to plant and attractive to deer, making them a great addition to food plots.
9. Clovers and Legumes
These feeds are highly digestible and contain around 20% protein. Which promotes and contributes to the overall health and antler growth.
These feeds are mostly available in Spring through summer,and the best time to feed deer with these feeds.
These crops also improve soil health and attract deer to feeding areas.
10. Corn with Protein Supplement
Corn is one of deer’s favourite feed, but it is low in protein on its own. It gets a good percentage of protein content when combined with a protein supplement and provides a balanced feed that supports body condition and antler growth.
It is useful all year round, but particularly in winter when food is scarce.
Corn is highly attractive to deer naturally, this makes it an excellent medium to deliver protein supplements.
11. Rice Bran
Rice ban is a best deer protein feed that is good for muscle gain and antler development. It is high in fat and protein
The best period to use this feed is when deer need an energy boost for antler growth in late winter through early spring.
It contains high energy content and helps deer maintain body condition during the leaner months.
12. Sportsman’s Choice Record Rack 20% Protein Pellets
As stated, this best deer protein feed contains 20% protein, and specifically designed to promote antler growth and deer overall health.
It is useful all year-round, with a focus on the antler-growing season.
Aside from the high protein content this best deer protein feed is easy to use and attractive to deer. It is a very popular choice among hunters and wildlife managers.
To sum up, as a deer hunter or animal lover, maximizing your deer health and antler growth should be your priority. Protein is very essential for deer, and investing in these best deer protein feeds can make a great difference.
These 12 best deer protein feeds; from soybean meal and Purina AntlerMax to rice bran and Big Tine are all proven feeds that provide essential nutrients for deer and improve deer health, body condition, and antler size.
Ensure to experiment with these protein feeds to find what works best for your specific deer population, based on the season and availability of food resources.
Always remember that the right feed can make a huge difference.
Let us hear from you; which of these protein feeds have you been using? Share your experiences in the comments!
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