Creating your own deer blocks offers a rewarding way to supplement the natural food sources available to deer, especially during harsh winters or periods of low forage availability. This homemade deer block recipe provides a nutritious and cost-effective alternative to commercially produced blocks. Furthermore, you can tailor the recipe to your specific needs and the available ingredients. Remember, always check your local regulations before placing out supplemental feed for wildlife.
Ingredients for a Basic Deer Block Recipe
This recipe makes approximately 10-12 blocks, depending on the size of your mold. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 20 lbs. Soybean Meal: Provides a crucial source of protein.
- 10 lbs. Corn: Offers carbohydrates for energy. You can use cracked corn or a mix of cracked corn and cornmeal.
- 5 lbs. Oats: A good source of carbohydrates and fiber. Rolled oats work best.
- 3 lbs. Mineral Supplement: This is crucial! Choose a deer mineral supplement that is specifically formulated to meet their nutritional needs, including essential trace minerals like copper, zinc, and selenium. Never substitute a livestock mineral supplement.
- 1 lb. Molasses (optional): Adds palatability and acts as a binding agent. Blackstrap molasses is a common and cost-effective choice.
- 1-2 gallons of Water: The amount of water will depend on the consistency of your mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Deer Blocks
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large container (a wheelbarrow works well!), thoroughly mix the soybean meal, corn, oats, and mineral supplement. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed to provide a consistent nutritional profile across all blocks.
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Add Molasses (Optional): If using molasses, add it to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. This will help bind the ingredients together and make the blocks more appealing to deer.
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Gradually Add Water: Slowly add water while mixing continuously. The goal is to create a mixture that is moist but not overly wet. It should hold its shape when squeezed, but not be soupy.
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Molding the Blocks: You'll need molds to shape your deer blocks. Many options exist: you can use repurposed containers like plastic tubs, heavy-duty plastic pails (cutting them in half creates several molds), or even create your own molds from wood. Ensure the molds are clean and dry. Pack the mixture firmly into the molds.
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Drying the Blocks: Allow the blocks to dry completely. This typically takes several days to a couple of weeks, depending on the weather conditions and the size of your blocks. The blocks should be firm and hard to the touch before being placed out. A dry, shaded, well-ventilated area is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight which could potentially damage the nutritional content.
Tips for Success and Variations
- Experiment with Ingredients: You can adapt this basic recipe to include other ingredients that deer readily consume, such as wheat bran, alfalfa meal, or sunflower seeds (in moderation).
- Consider Seasonal Needs: Adjust the recipe based on the season. For instance, increase the energy content (corn and oats) during winter to help deer maintain body condition.
- Placement: Place the blocks in a sheltered area, away from water sources to prevent contamination. Regularly inspect and replenish as needed.
- Supplement, Not Replace: Remember, these blocks are meant to supplement, not replace, natural food sources.
- Safety First: Always follow safety precautions when handling ingredients and machinery, if any. Wear appropriate protective gear.
Why Homemade Deer Blocks?
Homemade deer blocks provide a unique advantage: control over ingredients. By carefully selecting high-quality ingredients and avoiding unnecessary fillers, you can ensure that your deer receive a well-balanced nutritional boost. This direct control allows for customizing the nutritional content based on your local deer population's specific needs and the prevalent forage conditions.
This homemade deer block recipe aims to provide a useful resource for landowners and wildlife enthusiasts looking to create a healthier environment for local deer populations. However, it is always recommended to consult with a wildlife biologist or local game warden for any specific questions or guidance related to wildlife feeding in your region.
