What to Feed Deer in Summer: A Complete Guide to Herd Health and Growth

Introduction

As temperatures rise and natural greenery flourishes, many landowners and wildlife enthusiasts find themselves asking: what to feed deer in summer to ensure a healthy, thriving herd? While summer provides deer with abundant forage options, it's also a critical time for supporting their growth, antler development, reproduction, and overall health. Proper supplemental feeding during this season can make a significant difference in the vitality of your local deer population.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the dietary needs of deer during summer, the best types of feed and minerals to offer, practical feeding strategies, and trusted products you can find at Paris Farmers Union to help nourish deer all season long.

Why Summer Feeding Matters

Many people associate supplemental feeding with the winter months when natural food is scarce. However, summer feeding is just as important—if not more so. During summer, deer face major physical demands:

• Bucks are growing antlers, which require significant amounts of protein and minerals.
• Does are nursing fawns, which demands extra calories and nutrients.
• Young deer (fawns and yearlings) are experiencing rapid growth and development.

Even with access to lush greenery, wild forage alone often doesn’t provide enough concentrated nutrition to support these biological needs at optimal levels. That’s where supplemental summer feeding steps in to help deer thrive.

Key Nutritional Needs for Deer in Summer

When deciding what to feed deer in summer, it's important to focus on the right balance of nutrients:

Nutrient	Importance
Protein	Critical for antler growth, muscle development, and lactation. Bucks may require feed with 16-20% protein.
Calcium and Phosphorus	Essential minerals for antler formation and skeletal development. The ideal Ca:P ratio is 2:1.
Energy Sources	Needed for day-to-day activity and supporting reproductive success.
Vitamins A, D, E	Support immune function, vision, and bone health.

Supplemental feeds and minerals provide these nutrients in highly digestible forms, ensuring deer can meet their physical demands even during dry spells when natural forage quality declines.

Types of Supplemental Feed to Use

There are several effective options available when determining what to feed deer in summer:

1. Protein Pellets and Feeds

High-protein pelleted feeds are specially formulated to meet the needs of growing and lactating deer. These feeds typically include a balance of essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins.

2. Mineral Blocks and Loose Minerals

Mineral blocks and loose minerals are easy ways to supplement a deer's natural diet. Look for blocks that contain key nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace minerals (zinc, copper, selenium).

3. Attractant Feeds

Feeds like apple or acorn-flavored attractants entice deer to frequent feeding areas while delivering necessary nutrients. They also help support deer visibility for landowners interested in monitoring herd health.

Recommended Products for Summer Feeding

At Paris Farmers Union, we offer a variety of high-quality products designed specifically to address what to feed deer in summer:

• Whitetail Institute 30-06 Mineral/Vitamin Plus Protein – Specially formulated for summer antler growth and herd health, this supplement combines minerals, vitamins, and protein.
• Ani-Logics Braggin Rights Apple and Acorn Attractants – Packed with critical nutrients and irresistible flavors, these attractants support both nutrition and deer movement patterns.
• Big & J BB2 Nutritional Deer Attractant – High in protein and energy, BB2 not only draws deer in but also delivers essential nutrients for antler growth and herd maintenance.
• Antler King Apple Burst Mineral Block – Convenient, palatable, and packed with antler-building nutrients.
• Lucky Buck Mineral – Designed for year-round use but particularly powerful in summer, supporting antler development and reproductive health.

These products provide excellent choices depending on your goals, whether it's increasing antler size, supporting doe nutrition, or simply maintaining a healthy, visible herd.

Tips for Setting Up Feeding Sites

Choosing the right location and setup for summer feeding can enhance your results significantly.

Location Matters

• Near bedding areas but at a safe distance to minimize pressure.
• Close to water sources whenever possible.
• In low-traffic human areas to reduce stress on the herd.

Use Multiple Sites

Spread out your feeding areas to reduce competition among deer and ensure that bucks, does, and fawns all have access to supplements.

Protect Your Feed

Use covered feeders to protect feed from rain, spoilage, and pests like raccoons.

Refresh Regularly

Replenish mineral licks and check feeding stations often to ensure freshness and hygiene.

Feeding Strategy: Complement, Don’t Replace

It’s important to remember that supplemental feeding during summer is meant to complement, not replace, natural forage. Deer are natural browsers and need a varied diet including:

• Native browse (woody plants, leaves, stems)
• Grasses
• Wild fruits
• Agricultural crops (like soybeans and clover)

Supplemental feeds should provide targeted nutrition without disrupting natural behaviors. Always ensure that deer still have access to their wild food sources.

Summer Feeding Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While supplemental feeding is highly beneficial, it comes with a few challenges:

• Spoilage Risk: High temperatures can spoil feed quickly. Always use feeders with covers and limit how much feed you dispense at one time.
• Pests and Predators: Set up feeders with designs that discourage raccoons, bears, and feral hogs.
• Overfeeding Risks: Avoid creating dependency. Supplement with moderation so deer continue to forage naturally.

By being mindful of these challenges, you can maximize the positive effects of your summer feeding program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How often should I refresh mineral sites?
A: Ideally, refresh loose minerals every 2–4 weeks, especially after heavy rains.

Q: Can I feed corn to deer in summer?
A: Corn is high in carbohydrates but low in protein and essential minerals, making it a poor summer feed. It’s better suited as a winter energy supplement.

Q: Should I continue feeding during heavy rain periods?
A: Yes, but protect feed with covered feeders or weather-resistant mineral blocks to avoid spoilage.

Q: Is it legal to feed deer in my state?
A: Feeding regulations vary widely. Always check local wildlife regulations regarding supplemental feeding and attractant use.

Understanding what to feed deer in summer is crucial for maintaining a healthy, thriving herd. High-protein pellets, mineral supplements, and nutrient-packed attractants provide the essential building blocks for antler growth, fawn development, and overall herd resilience. With smart feeding strategies and the right products, you can make a positive, lasting impact on the deer population in your area.

Ready to give your deer herd the best nutritional boost this summer?
Visit Paris Farmers Union to explore our complete range of deer attractants, protein feeds, and mineral supplements. Whether you're managing land for wildlife viewing, hunting, or conservation, Paris Farmers Union has the tools and expertise you need to help your herd thrive. Start feeding smart—shop with us today!