How to Keep Raccoons Away from Deer Feeders

Raccoons are a common sight in many areas, and while they may be cute, they can be a nuisance when they get into your deer feeders. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep raccoons away from your deer feeders and keep your deer safe. In this article, we’ll discuss how to keep raccoons away from deer feeders, including the best deterrents and tips for preventing raccoon access.

Summary

• Keep your deer feeders in an area that is inaccessible to raccoons.
• Use deterrents such as motion-activated lights, loud noises, and predator urine.
• Secure your deer feeders with a metal cage or a raccoon-proof latch.
• Clean up spilled feed to reduce the attraction of raccoons.
• Check your deer feeders regularly for signs of raccoon activity.

Keep Your Deer Feeders in an Inaccessible Area

The first step in keeping raccoons away from your deer feeders is to make sure they are in an area that is inaccessible to raccoons. Raccoons are excellent climbers, so make sure your deer feeders are placed in an area that is difficult for them to access. If possible, hang your deer feeders from a tree branch that is at least 8 feet off the ground. If you don’t have a tree branch that is high enough, you can also hang your deer feeders from a pole or post that is at least 8 feet off the ground.

Use Deterrents to Keep Raccoons Away

In addition to keeping your deer feeders in an inaccessible area, you can also use deterrents to keep raccoons away. Motion-activated lights are a great way to startle raccoons and keep them away from your deer feeders. You can also use loud noises, such as a radio or a loud whistle, to scare away raccoons. Predator urine is also an effective deterrent, as raccoons will avoid areas where they detect the scent of a predator.

Secure Your Deer Feeders

Raccoons are adept at opening latches and other closures, so it’s important to secure your deer feeders with a metal cage or a raccoon-proof latch. A metal cage will prevent raccoons from getting into your deer feeders, while a raccoon-proof latch will make it difficult for them to open the lid.

Clean Up Spilled Feed

Raccoons are attracted to spilled feed, so it’s important to clean up any spilled feed around your deer feeders. This will reduce the attraction of raccoons and make it less likely that they will try to get into your deer feeders.

Check Your Deer Feeders Regularly

Finally, it’s important to check your deer feeders regularly for signs of raccoon activity. Look for tracks, scat, or other signs that raccoons have been in the area. If you find any signs of raccoon activity, take steps to deter them from returning.

Pro Tip

To make your deer feeders even more secure, you can wrap them in metal mesh or chicken wire. This will make it even more difficult for raccoons to get into your deer feeders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to keep raccoons away from deer feeders?

The best way to keep raccoons away from deer feeders is to keep them in an inaccessible area, use deterrents such as motion-activated lights and predator urine, secure your deer feeders with a metal cage or a raccoon-proof latch, and clean up spilled feed.

Do raccoons eat deer feed?

Yes, raccoons will eat deer feed if they can get to it. To prevent them from getting to your deer feeders, it’s important to take steps to deter them and keep them away.