High protein deer feed is an essential part of a deer’s diet, especially during times of rapid growth and development, such as fawning season or antler growth. A diet high in protein can also improve the overall health and vitality of deer, making them more resistant to diseases and parasites.
In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to make your own high protein deer feed for your deer herd.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Deer
It is important to understand the nutritional needs of deer in order to provide them with a balanced diet. Protein is an essential nutrient for deer, as it plays a role in tissue repair, immune function, and growth and development.
The protein requirements for deer vary depending on their stage of development. For example, fawns have a higher protein requirement than adult deer, as they are growing at a faster rate.
Other important nutrients for deer include carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins. Carbohydrates provide energy for deer, while fats are a concentrated source of energy and help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, are necessary for proper bone development and maintenance. Vitamins, including vitamin A and E, are important for overall health and well-being.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for High Protein Deer Feed
When selecting ingredients for high protein deer feed, it is important to choose sources that are high in protein and also provide other essential nutrients. Some good options for high protein deer feed include soybeans, peas, and grains like corn and oats.
In addition to protein, it is important to balance the deer feed with other nutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins. This can be achieved by incorporating a variety of ingredients into the feed mix, such as hay, alfalfa, corn, oats, and other grains.
Formulating the Deer Feed Mix
Once you have chosen the ingredients for your high protein deer feed, the next step is to determine the proportion of each ingredient in the mix. This will depend on the nutritional needs of your deer herd and the availability of ingredients.
A general rule of thumb is to aim for a protein content of at least 16% for adult deer and 20% for fawns. When mixing the deer feed, it is important to ensure that all ingredients are well-combined and the mix is free of clumps.
You can use a feed mixer or simply mix the ingredients by hand. The feed can be stored in a cool, dry place, such as a barn or shed, in a sealed container to prevent spoilage.
Feeding Strategies for Maximizing the Benefits of High Protein Deer Feed
In order to maximize the benefits of high protein deer feed, it is important to implement a feeding strategy that takes into account the nutritional needs of your deer herd. This includes determining how much and how often to feed the deer.
As a general guideline, adult deer should receive 1-2% of their body weight in feed per day, while fawns may need up to 3% of their body weight. The specific amount will depend on factors such as the age and size of the deer, the quality and availability of forage, and the time of year.
It is also important to implement a feeding schedule that is consistent and meets the needs of your deer herd. This may involve feeding the deer at specific times of day, or on a set schedule based on the availability of feed.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your deer are receiving the high protein diet they need to thrive.
Conclusion
In summary, high protein deer feed is an important part of a deer’s diet, especially during times of rapid growth and development. By providing a diet that is high in protein and balanced with other essential nutrients, you can improve the overall health and vitality of your deer herd.
To make your own high protein deer feed, you will need to choose the right ingredients and formulate a mix that meets the nutritional needs of your deer. This may involve using high protein sources such as soybeans, peas, and grains, as well as incorporating other nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins.
Once you have prepared the deer feed, it is important to implement a feeding strategy that takes into account the specific needs of your deer herd. This may involve determining how much and how often to feed the deer, and implementing a consistent feeding schedule.
By following these guidelines, you can provide your deer with the high protein diet they need to thrive. We hope that this article has helped you to understand the importance of high protein deer feed and how to make your own.