Raccoons can be a nuisance for those who are trying to feed deer, as they are known to steal deer corn and other food sources. Not only does this deplete the food supply intended for the deer, but it can also lead to property damage as raccoons try to access the corn.
In this article, we will outline the steps that can be taken to keep raccoons out of deer corn and protect both the food and the property.
Identify the Source of the Problem
The first step in solving any problem is to identify the root cause.
In the case of raccoons stealing deer corn, it is important to determine how the raccoons are accessing the corn. Are they getting through a hole in a fence or enclosure? Are the bags of corn being left open or unsecured?
It is also important to consider whether there are any other attractants in the area that may be drawing the raccoons.
This might include garbage cans, pet food, or other sources of food. If these attractants are not addressed, the raccoons may continue to return even if the deer corn is protected.
Physical Barriers
One of the most effective ways to keep raccoons out of deer corn is to create a physical barrier that they cannot pass through. This might include repairing any holes or weaknesses in fences or enclosures, or installing a new fence or netting around the area where the deer corn is stored or distributed.
Another option is to use a cage or container with a secure lid to store the deer corn. This will prevent raccoons from getting to the corn, even if they manage to get through a fence or other barrier.
Deterrents
In addition to physical barriers, there are a number of deterrents that can be used to keep raccoons away from deer corn. Motion-activated sprinklers or lights can be an effective way to scare raccoons away, as they do not like sudden movements or bright lights.
Another option is to apply a taste deterrent to the deer corn. This might include hot sauce or other spicy seasonings, or commercial bittering agents that are specifically designed to make food unappealing to animals.
Placing a radio near the deer corn can also be effective at deterring raccoons, as they do not like constant noise.
Habitat Modification
In addition to taking direct measures to protect the deer corn, it is also important to modify the habitat to discourage raccoons from visiting.
This might include removing sources of food and shelter from the area, trimming tree branches that may be providing access to the deer corn, and keeping the area clean and free of debris that may attract raccoons.
By taking a comprehensive approach to raccoon control, it is possible to keep these pests away from deer corn and prevent conflicts with both the deer and the raccoons.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several steps that can be taken to keep raccoons out of deer corn and protect both the food and the property. These include:
- Identifying the source of the problem and addressing any attractants that may be drawing the raccoons
- Using physical barriers such as fences, netting, or secure containers to prevent access to the deer corn
- Implementing deterrents such as motion-activated sprinklers, taste deterrents, or constant noise
- Modifying the habitat to remove sources of food and shelter and make the area less attractive to raccoons
By following these steps, it is possible to prevent conflicts with raccoons and ensure that the deer have a reliable food source. It is important to be proactive in protecting the deer corn, as waiting until a problem arises can often lead to more difficult and costly solutions.
By taking preventative measures, it is possible to keep raccoons out of deer corn and preserve the food supply for the intended recipients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a chemical repellent to keep raccoons away from my deer corn?
Chemical repellents can be effective at deterring raccoons, but they may also pose a risk to other wildlife and pets. In addition, many chemical repellents are not long-lasting, so they may need to be reapplied frequently to be effective.
If you do decide to use a chemical repellent, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and take steps to prevent other animals from coming into contact with the repellent.
What if the raccoons are getting to my deer corn through the roof or a high tree branch?
If the raccoons are accessing the deer corn from above, it may be necessary to use a combination of physical barriers and deterrents to keep them away.
This might include installing a mesh or netting over the area where the corn is stored, or trimming tree branches that are providing access to the corn. In addition, using a motion-activated sprinkler or light may help to deter the raccoons from returning.
Can I use a live trap to capture and relocate the raccoons?
It is generally not recommended to trap and relocate raccoons, as they are often protected by state or local laws.
In addition, relocating raccoons can be stressful for the animals and may not be effective in the long-term, as they may simply return to the area or move on to another location. Instead of trapping and relocating raccoons, it is often more effective to take steps to prevent them from accessing the deer corn in the first place.
What if the raccoons are getting to my deer corn at night, when I can’t see them?
If you are unable to observe the raccoons accessing the deer corn, there are a few steps you can take to try to determine the source of the problem. One option is to set up a game camera in the area to capture footage of the raccoons at night.
This can help you to identify how the raccoons are getting to the corn and where they are coming from. Alternatively, you could try setting out a small amount of deer corn and observing it over the course of a few nights to see if the raccoons return.
Is it possible to coexist with raccoons, or do I have to keep them away from my deer corn at all costs?
While it is important to take steps to protect your deer corn, it is also possible to coexist with raccoons in some cases. This may involve finding ways to provide food and shelter for the raccoons that do not conflict with your own needs.
For example, you could consider setting up a separate feeding area for the raccoons, or providing them with a reliable source of water. By taking a more collaborative approach, it may be possible to reduce conflicts with raccoons and find a balance that works for both parties.