As the landscape awakens with the vibrant energy of spring, so does the wildlife around us. For many Texans, attracting deer and birds to their property is a rewarding way to connect with nature. The transition from winter to spring is a critical time for these animals. Natural food sources can still be scarce, and the demands of migration, mating, and raising young create a significant need for reliable nutrition. Providing a supplemental food source can help them thrive.
At Berend Bros., we share your passion for the outdoors and are dedicated to helping you support local wildlife responsibly. Whether you are a landowner managing deer populations or a homeowner who enjoys the morning chorus of songbirds, we have the feed and supplies to help you create a welcoming habitat. This guide provides practical tips for attracting deer and birds to your property this spring, ensuring you can enjoy their presence while contributing to their well-being.
The Importance of Responsible Spring Feeding
Feeding wildlife in the spring serves a different purpose than in the fall or winter. For deer, the spring is a crucial recovery period. After a tough winter, does are entering the final stages of pregnancy, and bucks are beginning the process of growing new antlers. Both require high-quality protein and minerals to support these demanding biological functions. Supplemental feeding can help ensure they have the energy reserves needed for a healthy reproductive season.
For birds, spring is a time of high activity. Many species are undertaking long migratory journeys, while resident birds are establishing territories and preparing to nest. Providing a consistent food source helps them refuel and gives them the energy needed to raise their young successfully. By feeding wildlife responsibly, you are not just attracting them for your viewing pleasure; you are playing a vital role in supporting a healthy local ecosystem.
Attracting and Nourishing Deer This Spring
Spring is a key time to focus on nutrition that supports growth and herd health. Simply putting out corn is not enough to meet the complex needs of deer during this season.
Choosing the Right Deer Feed
To truly benefit your local deer population, you need to provide a feed that is high in protein and fortified with essential minerals.
- Protein Feeds: Berend Bros. offers a variety of high-protein deer feeds specifically formulated for antler growth and fawn development. These feeds typically contain 16-20% protein and are packed with the nutrients deer need to recover from winter and prepare for the demanding seasons ahead. Look for pelleted rations that are easy for deer to digest and provide consistent nutrition.
- Corn as a Supplement: While corn is an excellent source of energy and a powerful attractant, it is low in protein. It should be used as part of a broader feeding program, not as the sole food source. Mixing corn with a high-protein feed can be an effective strategy to draw deer in while still providing balanced nutrition.
- Mineral Blocks and Supplements: Minerals like calcium and phosphorus are the building blocks of antlers. Placing mineral blocks or granular supplements near your feeding stations provides bucks with the essential elements they need for maximum antler development. Does also benefit greatly from these minerals as they support lactation and healthy fawn growth.
Setting Up Your Deer Feeding Station
Proper feeder placement and maintenance are just as important as the feed itself.
- Location is Key: Place feeders in a secluded area where deer feel safe and secure. Ideal spots are near natural travel corridors, such as wooded edges or creek bottoms, but far enough from public roads to prevent accidents. Having cover nearby gives deer a quick escape route if they feel threatened.
- Use a Quality Feeder: A durable, reliable feeder protects your investment from weather and non-target animals. Gravity-fed protein feeders are excellent for providing a constant supply of feed, while spin-cast feeders are great for distributing corn over a wider area at set times. Berend Bros. carries a range of feeders to suit any property size or budget.
- Maintain Consistency: Deer are creatures of habit. Once you start a feeding program, try to keep your feeders full. An empty feeder will cause deer to search for food elsewhere. Regular visits to check and refill feeders also allow you to monitor deer activity through game cameras.
- Provide Clean Water: A clean, accessible water source is a major attractant for all wildlife. If you don’t have a natural pond or creek, consider adding a water trough near your feeding area.
Creating a Haven for Wild Birds
The cheerful sounds and colorful flashes of birds bring life to any backyard. Providing food for them in the spring supports their nesting efforts and can bring a delightful variety of species to your feeders.
Selecting the Best Bird Seed
Different birds are attracted to different types of seed. Offering a variety will bring the widest range of visitors.
- Black-Oil Sunflower Seeds: If you can only offer one type of seed, this is it. The thin shell and high oil content make it a favorite for a vast number of species, including cardinals, chickadees, finches, and nuthatches.
- Nyjer (Thistle) Seed: This tiny, black seed is a magnet for finches, such as American Goldfinches and Pine Siskins. It requires a special feeder with small ports to prevent spillage.
- Safflower Seed: This white seed is a great choice if you have trouble with squirrels and grackles, as they tend to dislike its bitter taste. Cardinals, grosbeaks, and titmice, however, enjoy it.
- Suet Cakes: Suet is rendered animal fat mixed with seeds, nuts, or fruit. It provides a high-energy food source that is especially attractive to woodpeckers, nuthatches, and wrens.
- Hummingbird Nectar: To attract hummingbirds, mix a solution of one part plain white sugar to four parts water. Do not use honey or red dye, as they can be harmful to the birds.
At Berend Bros., you will find a wide selection of individual seeds and custom bird feed blends designed to attract a variety of local species.
Tips for a Bird-Friendly Backyard
- Feeder Placement: Place feeders at different levels to accommodate different bird behaviors. Some birds prefer to feed on the ground, while others feel safer at elevated feeders. Position them near trees or shrubs to provide cover from predators, but not so close that squirrels can easily jump onto them.
- Keep Feeders Clean: To prevent the spread of disease, clean your feeders every one to two weeks with a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry completely before refilling.
- Offer Fresh Water: A birdbath is one of the most effective ways to attract birds. They need water for drinking and bathing. Keep the water clean and fresh, and ensure the bath is shallow (1-2 inches deep) so they can use it safely.
- Provide Shelter and Nesting Sites: Planting native trees and shrubs provides natural food sources, shelter, and places for birds to build nests. You can also install birdhouses designed for specific species like bluebirds or wrens.
Berend Bros. Is Your Wildlife Partner
Supporting local wildlife is a rewarding endeavor that enriches our connection to the land. At Berend Bros., we are committed to providing the high-quality products and expert advice you need for attracting deer and birds successfully and responsibly. From protein-rich deer feeds and mineral supplements to a diverse selection of bird seeds and feeders, we have everything you need to create a thriving wildlife habitat.
Stop by any of our locations to speak with our knowledgeable team. We can help you choose the right products for your goals and share insights to help you make this spring a spectacular season for wildlife on your property.