Deer are a common sight in many areas, and for many people, seeing deer in their backyard or out in the wild is a special treat. One way that people often attract deer is by providing them with a source of food, such as corn.
However, there are times when deer may stop coming to the corn, and this can be frustrating for those who are trying to attract and observe these animals.
In this article, we will explore the various factors that may cause deer to stop coming to corn and provide strategies for attracting them back. By understanding the reasons why deer may stop coming to corn, you can take steps to ensure that these animals continue to visit your yard or property.
Factors that may cause deer to stop coming to corn
There are several factors that may cause deer to stop coming to corn, including:
Changes in available food sources
Deer are opportunistic feeders and will choose the food source that is most readily available and nutritious. If there are other food sources in the area that are more appealing to the deer, they may stop coming to the corn.
This could include natural sources of food, such as plants, berries, and nuts, or other sources of artificial food, such as bird feeders or garden plants.
Changes in the deer population
The size and composition of the deer population in an area can also affect their behavior. If the deer population increases, there may not be enough food to go around, leading some deer to seek out alternative sources of food.
On the other hand, if the deer population decreases, there may be less competition for food, and the remaining deer may be more selective in their feeding habits.
Changes in the environment
Environmental factors, such as weather, can also influence deer behavior. For example, during the winter months, deer may be more likely to visit corn feeders due to the colder temperatures and the need for additional calories to survive.
Conversely, during the warmer months, deer may have access to a wider variety of natural food sources and may be less reliant on artificial sources of food.
Human interference
Finally, human interference can also cause deer to stop coming to corn. If people frequently approach the corn feeders or otherwise disturb the deer, the animals may become skittish and avoid the area.
It is important to give deer space and avoid approaching them too closely, as this can cause them to become stressed and less likely to visit the corn.
How to determine if deer have stopped coming to corn
If you suspect that deer have stopped coming to the corn on your property, there are a few steps you can take to confirm this.
Observing deer activity in the area
One way to determine if deer are still coming to the corn is by simply observing their activity in the area. If you regularly see deer in your yard or near the corn feeders, it is likely that they are still visiting.
However, if you have not seen any deer in the area for an extended period of time, it is possible that they have stopped coming.
Examining corn feeders for signs of use
Another way to determine if deer are still coming to the corn is by examining the feeders themselves. If the corn is being consistently depleted, it is likely that deer are still visiting.
On the other hand, if the corn remains untouched for an extended period of time, it is possible that the deer have stopped coming.
Checking for other factors that may be affecting deer behavior
It is also important to consider other factors that may be affecting deer behavior. As mentioned earlier, changes in the availability of other food sources, the deer population, and the environment can all influence whether or not deer visit corn feeders.
By considering these factors, you can get a better understanding of why the deer may have stopped coming to the corn.
Strategies for attracting deer back to corn
If you have determined that deer have stopped coming to the corn on your property, there are a few strategies you can try to attract them back.
Supplementing their diet with other food sources
One way to attract deer back to the corn is by supplementing their diet with other food sources. This can help to make the corn more appealing, as the deer will have access to a wider variety of food.
Some options for supplementing the deer diet include providing them with apples, berries, or other fruits, or offering them a variety of plants to munch on.
Making the corn more accessible or appealing
Another strategy for attracting deer back to the corn is to make the corn more accessible or appealing. This could involve placing the corn feeders in more visible or open areas, or adding a salt lick to the area to make the corn more attractive to the deer.
Implementing habitat improvements
Finally, implementing habitat improvements can also help to attract deer back to the corn. This could include things like providing the deer with shelter, such as a deer stand or a brush pile, or creating a water source for them to drink from.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several factors that may cause deer to stop coming to corn, including changes in available food sources, changes in the deer population, changes in the environment, and human interference.
By understanding these factors and implementing strategies such as supplementing the deer diet with other food sources, making the corn more accessible or appealing, and implementing habitat improvements, you can attract deer back to the corn on your property.
How often should I refill the corn feeders?
It is generally recommended to refill the corn feeders every 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the feeder and the number of deer in the area. However, it is important to monitor the corn levels and refill the feeders as needed.
If the corn is being consistently depleted, it is likely that the deer are visiting the feeders regularly and will need more food. On the other hand, if the corn remains untouched for an extended period of time, it may be a sign that the deer are not visiting the feeders and you may need to try different strategies to attract them.
What type of corn should I use in the feeders?
Deer generally prefer whole kernel corn, but cracked corn or shelled corn can also be used. It is important to choose a high-quality corn that is free from mold or other contaminants.
Additionally, you may want to consider offering a variety of corn types to see which one the deer prefer.
Can I mix other types of food with the corn in the feeders?
Yes, you can mix other types of food with the corn in the feeders to supplement the deer diet. Some options include apples, berries, or other fruits, or a variety of plants.
It is important to choose food that is safe and nutritious for the deer and to avoid offering any toxic or poisonous plants.
What should I do if the deer are not coming to the corn feeders?
If the deer are not coming to the corn feeders, there are a few strategies you can try to attract them back. These include supplementing their diet with other food sources, making the corn more accessible or appealing, and implementing habitat improvements.
It may also be helpful to observe the deer activity in the area and examine the corn feeders for signs of use to determine the possible causes of the deer’s absence.
Can I attract other animals besides deer to the corn feeders?
While the corn feeders are primarily intended for deer, it is possible that other animals may also be attracted to the feeders. This could include birds, squirrels, and other small mammals.
If you do not want to attract other animals to the feeders, you can try using feeders that are specifically designed for deer or take steps to deter other animals from accessing the feeders. It is also important to follow any local regulations or guidelines regarding the feeding of wildlife.