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Best Winter Feed For Deer (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to keep deer well-fed during the winter months, you might be in need of winter feed for deer. Winter can be a tough time for animals, and many species, including deer, need extra sustenance to make it through the season. But what should you consider when buying this type of feed?

First, you’ll want to think about the nutritional content of the feed. Look for products with balanced ratios of protein, fat, and fiber to ensure that the deer are getting the nutrients they need. You’ll also want to consider the format of the feed – pellets and blocks are popular options, but deer may also enjoy grain-based mixes. Finally, factor in the price – while you want to choose a high-quality product, you don’t want to break the bank.

Are you wondering where to purchase winter feed for deer in your area? Are you curious about the best ways to distribute the feed to keep deer coming back? Or maybe you have questions about the types of deer that are common in your region and what their dietary needs are. Stay tuned for more tips on providing winter feed for deer and keeping wildlife healthy all year round.

10 Best Winter Feed For Deer

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for creating a high-protein, high-energy food plot for deer during fall, winter, and spring seasons that covers half an acre.
2
This product is ideal for feeding various wildlife and livestock such as deer, squirrels, birds, and beef cattle.
3
The product is ideal for providing nutrition and attracting deer to food plots, specifically for antler-building during fall and winter.
4
It is ideal as feed for a variety of wildlife species such as deer, squirrels, turkeys, and more.
5
The product is ideal for feeding deer and promoting their health.
6
Ideal for planting a high-quality food plot for deer with superior growth potential and easy planting process.
7
The product is ideal for providing natural feed salt to livestock and wildlife, containing 84 minerals and trace elements.
8
Ideal for feeding and attracting various wildlife such as squirrels and deer to your backyard.
9
Ideal for providing a warm winter bath and food station for birds, squirrels, and deer in outdoor garden and yard areas.
10
The product is ideal for feeding and attracting deer with a variety of protein, corn, and rice bran.
Ideal for creating a high-protein, high-energy food plot for deer during fall, winter, and spring seasons that covers half an acre.
This product is ideal for feeding various wildlife and livestock such as deer, squirrels, birds, and beef cattle.
The product is ideal for providing nutrition and attracting deer to food plots, specifically for antler-building during fall and winter.
It is ideal as feed for a variety of wildlife species such as deer, squirrels, turkeys, and more.
The product is ideal for feeding deer and promoting their health.
Ideal for planting a high-quality food plot for deer with superior growth potential and easy planting process.
The product is ideal for providing natural feed salt to livestock and wildlife, containing 84 minerals and trace elements.
Ideal for feeding and attracting various wildlife such as squirrels and deer to your backyard.
Ideal for providing a warm winter bath and food station for birds, squirrels, and deer in outdoor garden and yard areas.
The product is ideal for feeding and attracting deer with a variety of protein, corn, and rice bran.

1. Late Season Deer Fuel – 17lbs

ANTLER KING is a well-known brand that offers high-quality wildlife nutrition products, food plots, minerals, and attractants to help hunters grow bigger bucks and healthier deer. Their Fall/Winter/Spring Food Plot Seed Blend is a unique mix that stays green all season long and provides deer with the much-needed winter energy, as well as up to 20% protein for bucks to grow next year's rack. This seed blend can cover half an acre of land and is perfect for those who want to attract deer to their property.

The Winter Peas in the Fall/Winter/Spring blend offer a 20-30% protein forage that is very cold-tolerant, making it suitable for harsh winter conditions. Additionally, the entire plant (stem, leaves, pod) can be browsed and eaten by deer. The special variety of Fall Rye in the blend offers a tender green food source with up to 15% protein and stays green all winter long. The unique blend of winter peas, fall rye, radishes, and buckwheat grows extremely fast and can be up to 6-8 inches tall in only 10 days.

If you are an avid hunter looking for an unbelievable hunt plot, this is the perfect seed blend for you! The Fall/Winter/Spring Food Plot Seed Blend is easy to plant in the fall, between August and October. It is recommended to use 19-19-19 or 15-15-15 fertilizer at 300lbs per acre and maintain a pH level between 5.5-7.0. You can also plow the plot in spring to put nitrogen back into the soil.

Overall, the ANTLE KING Fall/Winter/Spring Food Plot Seed Blend is an excellent choice for those who want to attract deer to their property and provide them with the necessary nutrients and energy for the winter season. The seed blend is easy to plant and maintain, and it offers a high protein forage that bucks need to grow their antlers. If you are looking for a reliable and efficient way to optimize your hunting experience, this seed blend is a great investment.

Pros

  • Provides deer with much-needed winter energy and up to 20% protein for bucks to grow next year's rack
  • The Winter Peas and Fall Rye offer a high-protein forage that is cold-tolerant and stays green all winter long
  • The unique blend of winter peas, fall rye, radishes, and buckwheat grows extremely fast and can be up to 6-8 inches tall in only 10 days
  • Easy to plant and maintain
  • Perfect for those who want to attract deer to their property and optimize their hunting experience

Cons

  • – Only suitable for planting in the fall
  • – Requires specific fertilizer and pH levels for optimal growth

2. Wildlife Fuel – 10lb (Double-Sealed)

The BEST Natural Whole Corn Animal Feed is a high-quality feed that is ideal for wild animals. It is available in a 10 lb. package and is an excellent source of nutrition. The feed is high in carbohydrates, loaded with fiber, and helps reduce cholesterol levels. It contains a good amount of Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant, and Vitamin A, which is important for eye health.

The feed is made from the finest quality proteins that promote tissue and muscle growth. It is ideal for attracting a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrel, opossum, raccoon, rabbits, foxes, and birds such as turkeys, quails, hawks, songbirds, cardinals, eastern bluebirds, grosbeaks, crows, ravens, jays, doves, and red-bellied woodpeckers.

The whole corn can also be used for arts and crafts such as making corn-filled bags for corn hole tossing. It can be used as stuffing for DIY heating pads. Whole corn feed is a great choice to add to children's sensory bins. Early learning skills are developed through sensory bin play. Additionally, whole corn feed can be substituted for hay as the main energy source in mature cows. They will require about half as much corn as they do hay (1 lbs of corn feed/every 2 lbs of hay it eats). This is a great alternative feed source to help reduce winter feed costs.

Pros

  • Excellent source of nutrition for wild animals
  • High in carbohydrates and loaded with fiber
  • Contains Vitamin E and Vitamin A that are important for health
  • Made from the finest quality proteins that promote tissue and muscle growth
  • Ideal for attracting a variety of wildlife
  • Can also be used for arts and crafts and DIY projects
  • A great alternative feed source to help reduce winter feed costs
  • Helps develop early learning skills through sensory bin play
  • Can be substituted for hay as the main energy source in mature cows

3. Deer Thrive: Antler-Building Nutrition & Attractant

The Whitetail Institute's Deer Food Supplement is a scientifically formulated product that contains a balanced mixture of energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins. It also includes Antler-Up D3, which helps deer maintain their body weight and overall health during the fall and winter months. This nutrient-dense supplement is designed to enhance winter stamina, maintain muscle and bone mass, and replenish critical minerals and vitamins. Additionally, it contains antioxidant nutrients that aid in muscle and tissue recovery and support a healthy digestive system.

One of the most attractive features of this supplement is its exclusive scent and flavor enhancer called Devour. This proprietary formula is proven to be highly attractive to deer and is an excellent way to encourage them to consume the supplement. The supplement can be fed on ground sites, in troughs, gravity feeders or mixed with corn, making it easy to use in a variety of feeding situations.

This deer food supplement is an excellent choice for those looking to support the overall health of their deer population. By providing a nutrient-dense supplement that is easy to consume and highly attractive, you can help your deer maintain their health throughout the fall and winter months.

Pros

  • Scientifically formulated with a specific balance of energy, protein, mineral, and vitamin components
  • Includes Antler-Up D3 to help deer maintain body weight and overall health during the fall and winter
  • Nutrient-dense for winter stamina and helps deer maintain muscle and bone mass
  • Replenishes critical minerals and vitamins and contains antioxidant nutrients
  • Contains Devour, the Whitetail Institute’s exclusive scent and flavor enhancer that’s extremely attractive to deer
  • Can be fed on ground sites, in troughs, gravity feeders, or mixed with corn

4. Wildlife Superfood: Non-Gmo Feed (25lb)

Looking for a perfect blend of Non-GMO cracked corn, wheat, barley, roasted soybean, and black oil sunflower seeds for your wild critters? Look no further than this product sourced from Ernst Grain & Livestock, a 7th generation family farm.

Whether you want to feed your critters in a pile or in feeders, this blend is perfect for both. The product has been tested free of glyphosate, making it a great choice for those concerned about their critters' health.

This blend is sure to attract a variety of wild critters, and the packaging ensures that it stays fresh for a long time. So, if you want to attract more wild critters to your backyard, give this blend a try today!

Pros

  • Sourced from a 7th generation family farm
  • Blend of Non-GMO cracked corn, wheat, barley, roasted soybean, and black oil sunflower seeds
  • Tested free of glyphosate
  • Great choice for those concerned about their critters' health
  • Packaging ensures that it stays fresh for a long time
  • Attracts a variety of wild critters

5. Bestnest Deer Feed Block, 25 Lbs.

This 25-pound block of seed is a great way to help the deer in your area remain healthy. The block provides some of their favorite foods, including proteins, minerals, and vitamins that are essential for keeping the deer population viable. The block is made with a combination of molasses products, salt, and grain, which work together to create an irresistible flavor that will attract deer to the block.

One of the best features of this deer feed block is how easy it is to use. Simply place the block near where you see deer activity, and the deer will come to it on their own. This makes it a great option for anyone who wants to help the deer in their area but doesn't have the time or resources to create their own feed.

Overall, this 25-pound block of seed is a great investment for anyone who cares about the health and wellbeing of the deer in their area. Not only does it provide the deer with the nutrients they need to thrive, but it also helps to keep the deer population viable for future generations.

Pros

  • Provides deer with essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins to keep them healthy
  • Made with a combination of molasses products, salt, and grain for an irresistible flavor
  • Easy to use, simply place the block near where you see deer activity
  • Helps to keep the deer population viable for future generations

6. Deer's Delight Food Plot Seed.

The product is a jug of hybrid forage brassica, rutabaga, turnip, and rapeseed, weighing 3 pounds. It comes in a reusable container and can cover half an acre or 22,000 square feet. The plant varieties are carefully selected to mature at different times, making it an optimal deer attraction. It has superior re-growth potential and graze tolerance, and can be grazed up to 4 times within a growing season. The product is easy to plant and has fast germination, superior attraction, and excellent forage production. It is an incredible fall and winter food source that combines high protein forages with high-energy tap roots, attracting and feeding your herd throughout the fall and winter seasons.

Pros

  • Covers half an acre or 22,000 square feet
  • Hybrid forage brassica, rutabaga, turnip, and rapeseed varieties are carefully selected to mature at different times, making it an optimal deer attraction
  • Superior re-growth potential and graze tolerance
  • Can be grazed up to 4 times within a growing season
  • Easy to plant and fast germination
  • Excellent forage production
  • An incredible fall and winter food source that combines high protein forages with high-energy tap roots, attracting and feeding your herd throughout the fall and winter seasons
  • Comes in a reusable container

7. Himalayan Salt Lick For Livestock And Wildlife.

The Pink Himalayan Compressed Salt Animal Licks are 100% natural and sourced from the salt mines located in the Northern Regions of Pakistan. These licks are made with very fine pink Himalayan salt powder that is captured during food grade salt processing and is compressed with up to 1000 tons of pressure into smooth block shapes without any binding agents or chemicals added.

The smooth surface of the licks creates a safe licking experience for animals. Natural cut salt licks have sharp edges that can cause bruising to the animal's tongue. These licks are safe for all wildlife and livestock animals such as horses, cows, cattle, deer, goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, elk, alpacas, mules, camels, boars, oxen, and more.

Pink Himalayan salt contains up to 84 natural minerals and trace elements that are necessary for animal diet. When animals sweat, electrolytes are lost, and licking Pure Himalayan Salt helps replenish lost electrolytes with the addition of other natural minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. Licking salt also helps animals maintain healthy water consumption.

Pros

  • 100% natural and sourced from Himalayan salt mines
  • Smooth surface creates a safe licking experience for animals
  • Contains up to 84 natural minerals and trace elements
  • Helps replenish lost electrolytes and maintains healthy water consumption

8. Backyard Seeds Squirrel, Deer Feed & Wildlife Mix 20 Pounds

This 20-pound bag of wildlife feed is perfect for attracting and nourishing a variety of animals. The premium mix of ingredients is specially formulated to cater to the dietary needs of wildlife, including whole corn, medium stripe sunflowers, split peanuts, peanuts in shell, and coarse cracked corn. With a unique combination of these ingredients, this mix provides a balanced diet for animals of all shapes and sizes, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to attract wildlife.

Containing 14% protein, 16% fat, and 14% fiber, this wildlife feed ensures that animals are getting the nutrition they need to thrive. Whether you're trying to attract birds, squirrels, rabbits, or other wildlife to your backyard, this feed is sure to do the trick.

Not only is this wildlife feed nutritious, but it's also easy to use. Simply scatter it on the ground or place it in a wildlife feeder, and wait for the animals to come. The 20-pound bag provides plenty of feed to last for a while, so you won't have to worry about running out anytime soon.

Overall, this premium mix of wildlife feed is an excellent choice for anyone looking to attract and nourish wildlife. With its unique combination of ingredients, balanced nutrition, and ease of use, it's sure to be a hit with animals of all shapes and sizes.

Pros

  • Contains a premium mix of ingredients specially formulated for wildlife
  • Provides a balanced diet with 14% protein, 16% fat, and 14% fiber
  • Easy to use by scattering on the ground or placing in a wildlife feeder
  • 20-pound bag provides plenty of feed to last for a while

9. Winter Haven Heated Bird Feeder

The Shaledig Heated Bird Bath is the perfect solution for providing fresh and flowing water to outdoor animals such as birds, squirrels, deer and other small pets during the winter season. With its 75 watts electric heating wire and a water capacity of up to 0.6 gallons, this birdbath heater can ensure that your feathered friends have a happy and comfortable winter. The thermostatical setting of the Birdbath heater ensures that it begins to work when the water temperature approaches the freezing point (45° F). The power supply can be connected for 24 hours, and it will automatically start working when the temperature drops to the specified temperature. This makes it simple and convenient to use without having to waste too much manpower to pay attention.

The Shaledig Heated Bird Bath is designed with a specially shaped structure that can be placed on the ground, fixed on railings, or decks. It can be installed anywhere birds are resident, and the included accessories make it easy to install. Made of premium plastic material, the heated bird bath is tasteless, non-conductive, and non-rust. This ensures that it won't freeze in the cold winter, and all accessories are made of heavy-duty materials. The installed birdbath is stable, not easy to fall or tilt.

The Shaledig Heated Bird Bath can be used all year round, providing flowing water in winter, and being a bird feeder in other seasons. It is perfect for use in gardens, yards, patios, and any outdoor place. It is ideal for birds, squirrels, deer or other outside pets and animals.

Pros

  • 75 watts electric heating wire and 0.6 gallons water capacity ensures a happy and comfortable winter for birds and small pets.
  • Thermostatical setting ensures automatic operation when the temperature drops.
  • Easy to install with included accessories.
  • Made of premium plastic material, it is tasteless, non-conductive, and non-rust.
  • Stable and not easy to fall or tilt.

10. Asf Ez Protein Deer Feeder.

The EZ Tree Feeder is a durable and efficient way to feed wildlife. Its special feature of elevation maximizes the feed potential and helps to prevent moisture, mold, parasites, and pests from contaminating the feed. The feeder is built to last with heavy-duty materials and a powder-coated body that keeps the feed clean and off the ground. With a capacity to hold 60lbs of protein, 85lbs of corn, and 80lbs of rice bran, the internal baffle helps to regulate feed flow. The recommended height for mounting the feeder is 38” off the ground. Installing the EZ Tree Feeder is easy with the included straps, and it can be mounted to a tree or post. Customer satisfaction is a top priority, and the company offers a 100% money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • Maximizes feed potential through elevation
  • Made with heavy-duty materials to withstand the outdoors
  • Powder-coated body keeps feed clean and off the ground
  • Internal baffle helps to regulate feed flow
  • Easy to install with included straps
  • Can be mounted to a tree or post
  • 100% money-back guarantee

Best Winter Feed For Deer FAQs

How can I ensure that deer are not negatively impacted by winter feeding, such as through overpopulation or disease transmission?

Winter feeding of deer can be a great way to help these animals survive during the harsh winter months. However, it is important to ensure that this feeding does not negatively impact the deer population. Overpopulation of deer can lead to a number of problems, including increased competition for food, habitat destruction, and disease transmission. To prevent these negative impacts, it is important to follow a few key guidelines when feeding deer.

First, it is important to limit the amount of food provided to deer. This can help prevent overpopulation, as well as reduce the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, it is important to feed deer in areas where they are less likely to come into contact with other wildlife, such as near roads or populated areas. Finally, it is important to provide a variety of food sources, including hay, corn, and other grains, to ensure that deer are getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. With these guidelines in mind, you can help ensure that your winter feeding efforts are not negatively impacting the deer population.

How much winter feed should I provide for deer on my property?

Providing winter feed for deer on your property is a great way to ensure their survival during the harsh winter months. The amount of feed you should provide depends on several factors such as the size of your property, the number of deer present, and the severity of the winter weather.

As a general rule of thumb, you should provide about 1-2 pounds of feed per deer per day. However, it is important to monitor the amount of feed you are providing and adjust accordingly. Overfeeding can lead to health problems for the deer, while underfeeding can result in starvation.

When selecting winter feed for deer, it is important to choose options that are high in protein and energy. Good options include hay, corn, and soybeans. You can also provide salt and mineral blocks to help with their overall health.

Keep in mind that providing winter feed should not be a substitute for natural food sources. It is important to maintain a healthy habitat for the deer to ensure their long-term survival.

What are the best types of winter feed for deer?

In order to keep deer healthy and well-fed during the winter season, it's important to provide them with the best types of winter feed. The ideal feed for deer during the winter months is hay, corn, and grains. These types of feed provide the essential nutrients that deer need to survive the harsh winter weather. It's also important to provide deer with access to fresh water, as dehydration can be a major problem in the winter months.

In addition to hay, corn, and grains, other types of feed that are good for deer during the winter include tree bark, acorns, and other nuts. These types of feed are rich in protein and carbohydrates, which help to keep deer healthy and strong.

When feeding deer during the winter months, it's important to avoid feeding them processed foods or anything that is high in sugar or salt. These types of foods can be harmful to deer and can cause a range of health issues.

Overall, the best types of winter feed for deer are hay, corn, and grains, along with tree bark, acorns, and other nuts. By providing deer with these types of feed, you can help to ensure their health and survival throughout the winter season.

What are the risks and benefits of providing supplemental feed for deer in the winter?

Providing supplemental feed for deer in the winter can have both risks and benefits. The main benefit is that it can help deer survive during harsh winter conditions when natural food sources are scarce. This can also increase the overall health and survival rates of the deer population.

However, there are also risks associated with supplemental feeding. One risk is that it can lead to overpopulation and an increased risk of disease transmission among deer. Additionally, feeding can alter the natural behavior of deer and cause them to become dependent on human-provided food sources. This can lead to issues such as increased damage to gardens and crops, as well as increased risk of deer-vehicle collisions.

It's important to note that if supplemental feeding is done, it should be done responsibly and with proper consideration for the potential risks and benefits. Experts recommend using appropriate feed types and feeding methods, and avoiding feeding during times of high risk for disease transmission. In general, it's best to consult with local wildlife officials or experts before beginning any supplemental feeding program.

What nutritional requirements do deer have in the winter months?

Deer are herbivorous animals and their diet mainly consists of woody plants, grasses, and forbs. During the winter months, when the snow covers the ground and vegetation is scarce, deer have to rely on alternative food sources. They require a high-energy diet to maintain their body temperature and survive the cold weather. In order to meet their nutritional requirements, deer primarily feed on twigs, buds, and bark of trees and shrubs. They also eat dried leaves, nuts, fruits, and grains.

Deer require a diet that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They need to consume a minimum of 6-8% of their body weight in food daily to maintain their health in winter. Feeding on a diverse range of food sources is important to provide them with the necessary nutrients.

It is important for deer to have access to clean water in the winter months. They need to drink water regularly to maintain their hydration levels, especially when feeding on dry food sources. Supplemental feeding programs can also help to provide the necessary nutrition for deer during the winter months. Providing a balanced diet during the winter months is important to ensure the survival and health of deer populations.

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