A Guide to Rearing & Feeding Deer

Key Nutritional Needs

• Energy: Mostly from natural forage, but extra energy is needed in winter or for growing stags/hinds.
• Protein: Supports antler growth, muscle development, and healthy coats.
• Fibre: Essential for healthy digestion—deer are natural browsers and grazers.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Especially calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, and selenium for antler and bone health, immunity, and fertility.

Types of Feed and Supplementation

• Complete Deer Feeds: Balanced mixes with cereals, fibre, and minerals for growth, condition, and antler development.
• Pellets & Nuts: Easy to handle and minimise waste; formulated for all UK deer species.
• Licks & Buckets: Provide free-access minerals and vitamins year-round, especially in winter or on poor grazing.
• Forage & Browse: Good-quality grass, hay, and natural browse (leaves, twigs) should be the main diet.
• Seasonal Support: Extra feed in late winter/early spring (antler growth, pregnancy) and during harsh weather.

How to Feed

• Frequency:
  • Supplement daily in winter or when forage is scarce.
  • Licks and buckets should be available at all times.
• Quantity:
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines and adjust for species, age, and condition.
• Water:
  • Fresh, clean water must always be available.

Housing & General Care

• Space:
  • Deer need large, secure enclosures or plenty of natural range.
• Shelter:
  • Provide woodland or shelter belts for protection from wind, rain, and sun.
• Fencing:
  • High, robust fencing (at least 2 metres) is essential for safety and containment.

Health & Biosecurity

• Cleanliness:
  • Keep feeding areas clean to avoid disease and parasite build-up.
• Worming & Parasites:
  • Regular health checks and worming are recommended, especially for park or farmed deer.
• Biosecurity:
  • Limit contact with livestock and wild deer to prevent disease spread.

Common Feeding Mistakes & FAQs

• Mistake: Overfeeding cereals or concentrates—can cause digestive upsets.
• Mistake: Not providing mineral licks—leads to deficiencies, especially in antler-growing stags.
• Mistake: Ignoring seasonal needs—deer may lose condition in winter or during antler growth.

• Can I feed deer sheep or cattle feed?
  Not ideal—deer have unique mineral and energy requirements.
• Do deer always need hard feed?
  No—supplement when natural forage is poor or during demanding periods.
• How do I know if my deer need supplements?
  If grazing is poor, or deer are growing, pregnant, or producing antlers, supplements and licks are beneficial.

Product Recommendations