Guest J_Owens_66 Posted February 23, 2005 Report Share Posted February 23, 2005 I built a feeder, in the feeder i have corn, which i hear isn't a great protein source at all, and i have alfalfa pellets mixed in. How good of a source of protein is the alfalfa? It is a dollar more than the bag of corn, so if it is better for them and they like it better, i will start feeding mostly alfalfa pellets. How is the protein level, how do the deer like it? Thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dogdoc Posted February 23, 2005 Report Share Posted February 23, 2005 Re: Feed It depends on the quality of the pellets but anywhere from 12 to 18% protein in dehydrated alfalfa pellets. Yes the deer will eat them--at least mine do. The only problem with them is if the pellets get wet they will turn into mush pretty quick and sour. Is it a trough feeder or a broadcast feeder. If it is a covered trough feeder then the pellets will be fine--if not then I would go with forage soybeans. They will be fine if they get wet and are even higher protein than alfalfa pellets. If using a broadcast type feeder I would just stick with corn--during the winter the deer actually need high energy (carbs) type feed which the corn provides. You are right though--corn is low in protein--about 9%. Once spring starts their nutritional needs change for less carbs and more protein so changing to the alfalfa pellets, soybeans, or an actual deer pellet is better. Purina makes a great deer pellet that has a waterguard coating so it can be used in broadcast type or uncovered feeders. todd Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wtnhunt Posted February 23, 2005 Report Share Posted February 23, 2005 Re: Feed Alfalfa is a very good source of protein. You might also try beans. Like Todd said though if it gets it maynot be the best bet. We have a local feed store here where I buy feed for our cows and horses, they sell a few different brands of deer feed including purina. Have never tried it, but probably will. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jjones Posted February 26, 2005 Report Share Posted February 26, 2005 Re: Feed dogdoc you da man with the food plots!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bowhtr1 Posted March 1, 2005 Report Share Posted March 1, 2005 Re: Feed The deer need about 18% protein to get to there full potential. Corn wont do it. Feed grade soybeans are the best I can find for the summer. About 32% protein. I get a 60 lb bag for 4 bucks. The coons wont eat it so you will save money because of that. Coons normally eat 1/3rd of the corn I put out. During the winter I mix the soybeans with corn because the deer need the carbs more. Good luck. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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