Deer & Wildlife

Deer & Wildlife

Common Deer Feed and Supplement FAQs

Think nutrient and carbohydrate-rich greens like clover, kale, and protein-rich turnips on food plots. Tasty, protein-rich legume plots are always in season. Summer is the perfect time to start adding attractants and mineral blocks in front of your deer cameras. Minerals from blocks are an excellent choice year-round.

Consider forage peas, buckwheat, and sunflowers for high-protein winter forage on a food plot. Soybeans are another economical option, balancing carbohydrates and fats, which is crucial during colder months when natural food sources are scarce. 

Since deer grow in the spring and summer, these are the times of year when deer need the most supplemental protein. Bucks use protein for antler growth and does require protein to feed and raise their fawns. Maintain mineral supplementation during spring and summer for healthy herds.

Continuing to feed deer with mineral-rich food or supplements through the winter has various benefits. Fawns born in the spring tend to be healthier, supporting the overall health of herds. Winter feeding also supports lactating does by enriching their milk production. Bone strength, body mass, and antler growth are encouraged with winter feeding.

Deer love flavorful, mineral-rich blocks, like the apple-flavored Deer Block. The Grainiac block is another year-round supplement for deer and other wildlife. Wild Berry flavored Buck Brick is another popular year-round option for attracting deer to your property.

18.5% Buck Formula is a higher-protein textured feed made for growing bucks, with the added benefit of feeding does as well. It is made with corn, oats, soybeans, and sunflower seeds. Roasted Bean Cuisine will attract deer with its protein and fat-rich roasted soybean blend. Its strong aroma will attract deer quickly. Kitchen Sink is another popular high protein, fortified deer feed.

You can mix feed types, such as protein pellets, with corn or grains. Mixing feeds is particularly useful when introducing deer to a new food source. Start with a 50/50 blend to familiarize them with the new feed before transitioning entirely to a high-protein option. Popular mixing options include Antler King Rack Maker with its versatile feed options and protein-rich Deer & Elk pellets.

Yes, moldy feed can be harmful to deer. Mold produces toxins that may cause digestive issues, sickness, or death. Always check your feed for signs of mold or spoilage, and clean the feeders frequently to avoid pesky germs.

There are a few different reasons that cause deer to stop eating from a feeder:

  • You changed the feed type or quality.
  • Presence of humans or predators.
  • Natural seasonal shifts in food availability.
  • If the feed has gone bad, deer will naturally avoid moldy or contaminated food.


Use fresh deer feed for successful feeding, and consistently place your feeders in secure locations.