Can Deer Be Trained To Come To A Feeding Site?

Establishing Trust and Familiarity

To train deer to come to a feeding site, you must first establish trust and familiarity. Start by placing food at the same spot each day, ideally at the same time, such as early morning or late afternoon when deer are most active. For the New York Adirondack deer, a good starting point is to provide a mix of grains and fruits, including corn, oats, and apples, which are readily available in the region.

Creating a Feeding Station

Create a feeding station that is easily accessible and visible to the deer. A simple platform or feeding trough can be effective, but avoid using anything that could be perceived as a threat, such as bright lights or loud noises. You can also use natural features like a fallen log or a rock outcropping to create a feeding area. For the Adirondack deer, a feeding station with a diameter of about 10-15 feet can accommodate a small to medium-sized herd.

Consistency and Patience

Consistency and patience are key when training deer to come to a feeding site. Aim to feed them at the same time every day, ideally for a period of 30-60 minutes, allowing the deer to become accustomed to the routine. As the deer become more comfortable with the feeding station, you can gradually increase the amount of food or the frequency of visits. For the Adirondack deer, a good rule of thumb is to start with a feeding duration of 30 minutes and gradually increase it to 60 minutes over a period of several weeks.