Deer Corn
Essential Facts and Top Feeding Tips for Healthy Wildlife
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Deer corn is a popular and effective option for attracting and feeding wild deer, particularly during the fall and winter seasons. It provides a supplemental source of energy and nutrients that can be valuable when their natural forage is scarce. Often used by hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, deer corn is typically available in bags or compressed into grain blocks, making it easy to distribute and manage.
However, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks and legal issues associated with using deer corn as an attractant. Some states restrict or prohibit the use of deer corn and other baiting techniques to maintain a fair and ethical hunting environment. Additionally, relying exclusively on deer corn for nutrition may not provide a balanced diet for the deer, potentially causing long-term health issues.
To make the most of deer corn as an additional food source for wildlife, it is crucial to understand the best practices and safety measures associated with its use. Mixing deer corn with other grains and supplemental feeds can help create a balanced diet for the deer and ensure their well-being while still attracting them to a specific area.
Understanding Deer Corn
Deer Corn
Deer corn, also known as wildlife feed corn or deer feed, is a specific type of corn that is specially grown and processed to meet the nutritional needs of deer and other wildlife. It is an effective deer attractant because deer have a strong sweet tooth and are naturally attracted to high-energy foods like fruits, acorns, and grains.
Agricultural Fields
In agricultural fields, farmers often grow corn as a primary crop. As a result, deer tend to visit these fields in search of corn as an appealing source of nutrition. It's essential to remember that not all corn varieties found in agricultural fields are suitable for deer consumption.
Grain Blocks
Grain blocks are another form of deer corn that are used to attract and nourish deer. These blocks often consist of a mix that includes 20 percent corn, 40 percent protein pellets, and 40 percent blaze orange protein pellets. In addition to providing the necessary nutrients to deer populations, grain blocks also include attractant scents to help draw the deer in and a cover scent to help mask human presence in the area.
50-Pound Bag
When purchasing deer corn, it often comes in 50-pound bags. These bags provide a convenient and accessible means of feeding deer, and the enclosed corn is typically formulated to provide optimal nutrition for deer populations.
Weight Packaging 50 lb Bag
Cow Corn
Cow corn, also known as field corn, is primarily grown as animal feed and is less suitable for deer consumption. Field corn is generally higher in fiber and lower in sugar content compared to deer corn, making it less appealing to deer who prefer sweeter food sources.
Field Corn
Field corn refers to varieties of corn that are typically grown for animal feed and other industrial purposes such as ethanol production. Field corn is distinct from deer corn in that its sugar content and nutritional profile may not be optimal for deer. While deer may consume field corn, it is essential to provide them with a more suitable source of nutrition such as specialized deer corn or grain blocks.
Feeding and Nutrition
Protein
Deer require a balanced diet to support their growth, reproduction, and overall health. Protein is an essential component of a deer's diet, offering the necessary nutrients for muscle development and healthy body functioning. Corn usually contains 7-10% protein, which can contribute to a deer's protein intake when combined with other food sources such as browse, fruits, and natural vegetation.
Fat
Fat is another essential nutrient required by deer to maintain a healthy diet. It plays a crucial role in providing energy and insulating the body during cold winter months. Corn is not a significant fat source, so it's vital for deer to access other fat-rich foods like acorns and natural forage.
Carbohydrates
Corn is an excellent source of carbohydrates for deer, particularly during winter when other food sources may be scarce. Carbohydrates are essential for deer as they provide energy for metabolism and body functions, helping deer survive the colder months. Feeding corn year-round can also be a viable option if deer already consume it during winter.
Fiber
Fiber is an essential part of a deer's diet, as it supports a healthy digestive system. Though corn may not be rich in fiber, its inclusion in the diet can still contribute to a deer's overall fiber intake. However, other food sources like natural vegetation are essential for providing the necessary fiber for proper digestion.
Minerals
Minerals are crucial for deer growth, antler development, and overall health. A diverse diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and natural forage helps provide deer with the needed minerals. Since corn lacks sufficient mineral content, it's important not to rely solely on corn for feeding deer but rather supplement it with other food sources.
Energy
Energy is vital for deer to survive and thrive in the wild. Corn, being high in carbohydrates, serves as an excellent energy source. This energy is particularly important during the winter months when other high-energy foods may be scarce. Providing corn to deer can help them maintain their energy levels during challenging conditions. However, it should not be the only source of energy in their diet–diverse and natural food sources are key to supporting their overall health and nutrition.
Usage and Benefit
Hunting
Deer corn is commonly used as an attractant for deer hunting, allowing hunters to draw deer into specific locations, making it an integral part of the sport. It assists hunters by concentrating deer in an area, which can increase the chances of a successful hunt. Corn can be used in combination with other attractants such as scents and rubs to further entice deer to a location.
Wildlife
As a food source, deer corn serves as a nutritional lifeline for not only deer but also other wildlife species. Landowners may allocate sections of their farmland to cultivate corn for the purpose of supporting the deer population and other wildlife throughout the year. This provision enhances overall biodiversity, making the outdoors a more thriving ecosystem for all its inhabitants.
Baiting
Corn is often used as bait to attract deer for various objectives, from wildlife observation and photography to managing overpopulations. Its high-energy, sweet, and easily digestible nature makes it an appealing snack for deer, motivating them to seek it out. When used responsibly and legally, baiting with corn can offer a minimally invasive method of interacting with or managing the deer population.
Cover and Shelter
In addition to its role as a food source, corn can also provide cover and shelter for deer and other wildlife. Tall cornstalks create a natural and effective barrier, allowing deer to hide from potential predators and seek refuge. This cover also benefits hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, as it ensures the presence of deer and other wildlife in the area.
Food Source
Corn is a reliable food source for deer, especially during fall and winter months when their natural food sources, such as leaves, fruits, nuts, and grass, become scarce. Corn can be combined with typical deer food to significantly benefit their health. However, it's crucial to remember that using corn only or in excessive amounts as a primary food source for deer can cause digestive problems, so it should be provided responsibly and in moderation with other food sources.
Potential Downsides
Acidosis
One of the significant downsides of feeding deer corn is the risk of acidosis. Acidosis is a result of deer eating a large amount of corn, which may negatively affect their digestive process. When deer consume a significant quantity of corn, it causes a flush of lactic acid in their stomach. In severe cases, this may lead to dehydration and even death1. It is essential to be cautious with the quantity of corn provided to the deer, ensuring it makes up only a small part of their diet2.
Raccoons
Another potential issue when providing corn to deer is attracting unwanted visitors such as raccoons. Raccoons are notorious scavengers that may be drawn to corn piles intended for deer, creating an undesirable competition for the deer3. Additionally, raccoons may carry and spread diseases that can negatively impact the health of deer or other wildlife around the feeding area.
To minimize the risks associated with feeding deer corn, consider the following recommendations:
Offer corn as a supplemental food source, ensuring it only comprises a small portion of the deer's diet2.
Combine corn with other food options, providing a diverse diet to help deer meet their nutritional needs2.
Avoid creating large corn piles, as they can attract unwanted wildlife such as raccoons3.
Monitor the area for signs of sick or unhealthy deer, adjusting feeding patterns as necessary to promote the well-being of the local deer population.
Footnotes
Fix & Feed, "Pros and Cons of Feeding Deer with Corn" ↩
Deer Universe, "Do Deer Eat Corn? (and Pros and Cons)" ↩ ↩2 ↩3
"Should I Use A Deer Feeder Or Corn Pile To Bait Deer" ↩ ↩2
Procurement and Delivery
Checkout
When procuring deer corn, customers can easily place their orders online or in-person at various suppliers. Online checkouts typically involve selecting the desired quantity and proceeding to the payment section. Customers can pay using multiple payment options such as credit cards, payment processors, or their accounts with the supplier. Upon successful payment, customers receive a confirmation of their order.
Delivery
The delivery process for deer corn varies depending on the supplier and the quantity of corn ordered. Many suppliers deliver pallet or bagged corn to customers' locations. Shipping options may include ground shipping or expedited shipping for an additional fee. In some instances, suppliers offer free shipping for bulk orders, making it even more convenient for customers. It is important to keep track of shipping and any delivery updates provided by the vendor so that customers can prepare for the arrival of their deer corn supply.
Pickup Option
An alternative to delivery is the pickup option. Many suppliers offer customers the ability to pick up their deer corn orders from designated locations such as warehouses or depots. This option may be more convenient for customers with their transportation or those located nearby the pickup location. It may also allow for faster procurement if it is available, as customers can avoid potential shipping delays.
Warehouse
Warehouses play a crucial role in the procurement and delivery process of deer corn. The facilities store large quantities of corn before it is packaged and distributed to customers. Warehouses ensure that the corn remains in good condition and adheres to quality standards. Additionally, these facilities often serve as pickup points for customers who choose the pickup option.
In summary, purchasing deer corn involves a streamlined checkout process, with options for delivery or pickup and a reliable warehouse system to ensure that quality products are delivered to customers.
Additional Applications
Wild Birds
Deer corn is not only a popular food option for deer but also a source of nutrition for wild birds. Many bird species, such as pigeons, doves, and pheasants, enjoy eating corn kernels as a source of carbohydrates and energy. Feeding tip: To cater to a variety of wild bird species, consider mixing deer corn with other types of seeds and grains.
Horses
Another application for deer corn is in the diet of horses. While corn is not the primary food source for horses, it can be included as a supplementary source of energy. However, whole corn should be cracked or rolled to facilitate better digestion for horses. It is essential to monitor the proportion of corn in a horse's diet, as excessive corn intake can lead to digestive issues and imbalanced nutrition.
Cultivation
Deer corn can be intentionally cultivated on sections of farmland to provide a year-round food supply for deer and other wildlife. Strategic cultivation of corn ensures wildlife has access to food in periods when alternative sources are scarce. For optimal results, consider planting in natural openings and larger plots when possible, as they allow for adequate supply and cover.
Seed and Grain Blends
Deer corn can be incorporated into customized seed and grain blends to serve as an attractant for both deer and other wildlife. By combining deer corn with other ingredients like:
Soybeans
Oats (how long do oats last?)
Wheat
Sunflower seeds
You can create diverse and nutritious blends tailored to local wildlife preferences and requirements. These blends are not only useful for attracting deer, but they also contribute to a well-balanced wildlife ecosystem.
Overall, deer corn has valuable applications beyond deer feed, benefiting wild birds, horses, and wildlife cultivation efforts. By considering additional ways to utilize deer corn, you can contribute to a thriving and diverse wildlife environment.
Market Offerings
Manna Pro
Manna Pro is a well-known brand in the USA that offers a variety of deer corn products. They provide quality grains to meet the nutritional needs of wild deer. Manna Pro's deer corn is available in different bag sizes, such as 10 lb, 20 lb, 40 lb, and 50 lb bags, allowing customers to choose an appropriate quantity for their needs. The prices for these bags can range from $7.99 for a 10 lb bag to $29.99 for a 50 lb bag, depending on the retailer.
Some popular Manna Pro deer corn products include:
Manna Pro Deer Corn: A whole, shelled corn feed designed for deer, which serves as an energy source and attracts them to your property.
Manna Pro Apple Corn: A unique blend of corn and apple flavor, this deer attractant provides both nutrition and an irresistible taste for deer.
Manna Pro's deer corn can be found at various retail outlets across the country, as well as online marketplaces such as Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., and Rural King.
Game Feed
Game Feed is another trusted brand in the USA that offers deer corn products to help you manage the deer population on your property. These deer corn products are formulated with quality ingredients and designed to attract deer in the most effective manner possible.
The Game Feed deer corn product line includes offerings such as:
Game Feed Whole Corn: This product provides deer with essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts who want to support a healthy deer population.
Game Feed Flavored Corn: Available in various flavors, such as apple and sugar beet, this flavored corn feed adds a unique and enticing taste that attracts deer more effectively.
In addition to these products, Game Feed also offers bulk pallets of deer corn, which cater to those with larger properties or who need to feed a more abundant deer population. Game Feed's deer corn can be found at numerous retailers, both at brick-and-mortar stores and online.
To summarize, both Manna Pro and Game Feed are reputable brands in the deer corn market, offering a variety of products to suit the needs of their customers. These products can be found across the USA, making them easily accessible for those looking to support and manage the deer population on their property.
