Cracked Corn Or Whole Corn For Deer
If you're a hunter or a wildlife enthusiast, you know how important it is to feed deer during certain times of the year. Feeding deer is an excellent way to attract them to your land, as well as to keep them healthy and strong. However, when it comes to deer feed, many people get confused about the best options available. One common question that people ask is whether they should feed deer cracked corn or whole corn. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of both options, so you can determine which one is the best for your specific needs.
What is Cracked Corn?
Cracked corn, as the name suggests, is simply corn kernels that have been cracked into smaller pieces. Typically, the kernels are broken down into pieces that are about a quarter-inch in size. You can feed cracked corn to deer by scattering it on the ground or placing it in a feeder.
What is Whole Corn?
Whole corn is corn kernels that have not been broken down into smaller pieces. It's the same kind of corn that you might see on the cob. You can feed whole corn to deer in the same way that you would feed cracked corn.
Pros and Cons of Cracked Corn
There are several advantages and disadvantages to feeding deer cracked corn:
Pros:
- Cracked corn is easier for deer to digest than whole corn, which means they can extract more nutrients from it.
- Smaller pieces of corn are easier for deer to eat than larger pieces, making it easier for them to consume more of it.
- Cracked corn is less likely to cause digestive issues in deer than whole corn.
Cons:
- Cracked corn tends to spoil more quickly than whole corn, which means you may need to replace it more often.
- Cracked corn is more expensive than whole corn, as it requires additional processing before it can be sold.
- Cracked corn may attract smaller animals like squirrels and raccoons, which can be a nuisance.
Pros and Cons of Whole Corn
Feeding deer whole corn also has its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Whole corn is cheaper than cracked corn, as it requires less processing.
- Whole corn lasts longer than cracked corn, as it's less likely to spoil as quickly.
- Whole corn is less likely to attract smaller animals than cracked corn.
Cons:
- Whole corn is harder for deer to digest than cracked corn, which means they may not extract as many nutrients from it.
- Larger pieces of corn may be more difficult for deer to eat, which means they may consume less of it.
- Whole corn may cause digestive issues in deer if they eat too much of it.
What Should You Feed Deer?
Ultimately, the decision to feed deer cracked corn or whole corn will depend on your specific situation. If you're looking for a feed that is easy for deer to digest and more likely to provide them with the nutrients they need, cracked corn may be the best option. However, if you're looking for a more cost-effective feed that lasts longer, whole corn may be a better option.
Regardless of which option you choose, it's important to keep in mind that deer require a balanced diet in order to remain healthy. While corn can be a good source of energy, it should never be the only food that you provide for deer. Supplementing their diet with other foods, such as protein-rich supplements or hay, can help ensure that they receive all the nutrients they need.
In Conclusion
Feeding deer can be a great way to attract them to your land and help them remain healthy throughout the year. Whether you choose to feed them cracked corn or whole corn will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to keep in mind the pros and cons of each option, as well as the fact that deer require a balanced diet in order to remain healthy. By supplementing their diet with other foods and providing them with a variety of feed options, you can help ensure that the deer on your land remain strong and healthy for years to come.