Deer feeders serve mainly two purposes: to lure deer closer to hunters or to allow nature lovers an easy way to feed the deer in their neighborhood. Whatever the need for a deer feeder, it is simple and affordable to construct.
Materials
- 5-gallon bucket
- 3” diameter PVC pipe
Tools
- Drill
- Permanent marker
- Measuring tape
- Knife
- Zip ties
- Power saw
Instructions
- Choose a location that is on even ground and is clear of dirt to build the deer feeder; it does not have to be where the deer feeder will eventually be installed.
- Place the bucket in the selected area and use a permanent marker to note a spot 8 inches up from the bottom; this will serve as the height for the tube. It is the ideal dimension for a deer feeder as it keeps creatures at bay and allows the deer plenty of room to feed.
- Cut at the 8” height with a saw and drill six evenly spaced holes below the bucket to form a drainage system; before you start drilling however, ensure the bucket is strong enough to withstand it.
- Saw two holes at both ends of the 3” diameter PVC pipe. This will allow proper distribution of food through the deer feeder.
- For the PVC pipe to be able to rest inside the base, create a slit down its length. Use a marker to note where the pipe will rest inside the base and then use a knife to create the incisions on the base.
- To install the pipe into the base, fit it on, then string the zip tie through the holes and pull it up to secure the pipe in place.
- Choose a quiet area, near a large tree in the deer’s natural habitat, and install the feeder there. Ensure the area is free from people traffic, or other animals to attract the highest number of deer possible to your feeder.
- When the most appropriate spot is selected, use the zip ties on the tube to affix it to the tree. Trim off excess zip ties or the animals will chew it off.
- To complete the structure, add food for the deer to eat. Add corn or grains to the tube and allow some to fall into the bucket.
Tips and warnings
- Do research before adding food to your feeder; there are right and wrong foods to feed a deer, but there are commercially available products to guide you in your selection of the appropriate feeding material.
- Do not leave spoilt food in the feeder as it will turn the deer off; they will remember that the spoilt food was in your feeder and go somewhere else for food.
- Use strong materials; old and brittle pipes or buckets will not withstand harsh weather or wear and tear.