I remember spotting a deer one summer afternoon in my garden. I was in awe at the sight. Not wanting to scare it away, I had to think of a way to bring it closer and not scare it.
Food was the first thing to come to mind. Now, not just any food. Ones that possess the quality of attracting and nourishing the deer at the same time. That’s a tricky one.
If you want to be able to enjoy the summer deer scenery for a longer time and interact with the deer without scaring them away, this blog is just for you. We will look at the 5 best foods that will attract and nourish a deer in your garden.
Let’s get right into it
The 5 Best Foods for Deer Attraction and Nourishment
The secret to attracting and nourishing deer is variety. You’ll want to focus on a delicious mix of nuts and fruits, those awesome herbaceous plants (forbs), and a good selection of shrubs and trees, as they are what deer love to eat. The ideal deer diet is low in protein and high in fiber.
Giving them a combination of energy-packed and nutrient-rich foods is how you keep them living and coming back for more all year long.
Clover and Alfalfa
They are legumes rich in protein and highly digestible. They taste fantastic, which is why deer find them quite edible.
The deer, particularly, will crawl through snow to consume alfalfa, which is a year-round favorite. The clover is also a great low-maintenance choice for feeding plots that can attract deer for years.
This protein is important for bucks growing their antlers and for does who are either pregnant or nursing fawns. It helps with optimal fawn health, growth, and development
Corn and Soybeans
Summertime is a great time to eat soybeans! Deer love those soft green leaves from the time they sprout. Throughout the late spring and summer, they provide a significant source of energy and protein. The firm beans in the pods also develop into a very high-energy food source as they become older, which is particularly useful when summer turns into autumn and even winter.
Corn should be used with caution because of its high content of readily available energy (carbohydrates). It is undoubtedly a deer magnet.
It’s crucial to understand, though, that deer may suffer if they are fed an excessive amount of maize, particularly if it is their only food source.
Because they are ruminants, their digestive systems may struggle to process excessive amounts of starch, which can lead to significant health issues, including bloat, acidosis, and even foot problems.
Grasses and Forbs
This is a deer’s daily meal. Deer consume grasses, particularly the fragile, new shoots. They provide steady energy and are a rich source of fiber and carbs.
Forbs are your broad-leaved, non-woody plants. Because they are frequently very digestible and nutrient-dense, notably high in protein, forbs are crucial in the summer. A deer will seek out these nutrient-dense forbs to maximize their yield.
Blackberry and Other Berries
Berries are a deer’s favorite. They eat mulberries, blackberries, raspberries, and wild grapes. They offer some moisture and vitamins, and they’re a great source of natural carbohydrates for energy.
Deer may readily access berry bushes throughout the summer months since they are frequently at the ideal height for browsing. If any berries fall to the ground, they will gladly devour them.
Nuts and Acorns
Acorns are rich in good nutrition and a go-to food source for deer. They represent an important food source for not only deer but also squirrels, turkeys, pigs, and dozens of other animals.
Deer will definitely consume acorns if they fall early, even though they are typically considered an autumn/winter nutrition source (plenty of carbohydrates and lipids). You may occasionally discover early acorns because different kinds drop at various dates.
Conclusion
Summer deer nutrition isn’t just about attracting deer; it’s about investing in the health and vitality of your local herd.
Understanding and providing a varied mix of energy-rich alternatives, such as berries and well-managed maize, as well as high-protein forage like clover, alfalfa, and soybeans, can directly support the overall health of deer, fawn development, and antler growth.
Your efforts will not only draw deer in but also ensure they thrive for seasons to come. With these 5 foods, you are ready to make your property a haven for healthy deer this summer
What do you think about these food choices? Got any other food choices you’d want to share? Comment below; let’s discuss and learn from each other.
