Late spring and early summer are some of the most important months for supporting healthy deer populations—but they’re also the easiest months to slack on feeder upkeep.
Hunters, landowners, and wildlife watchers often focus on feeders during the fall and winter. But if your goal is to pattern deer, build trust, and support antler growth and fawn development, spring and summer maintenance is just as crucial.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to keep your EvergreenBGF Big Game Feeder in top shape—from feed freshness and pest prevention to cleaning, positioning, and optimal seasonal settings.
Whether you use a gravity feeder or a timed spinner, this checklist will help you keep wildlife coming back—and prepare for a stronger fall season.
Why Spring & Summer Maintenance Matters
This time of year, deer are:
- Recovering from the rut
- Growing antlers and nurturing fawns
- Needing consistent nutrition (especially protein and minerals)
- Starting to form patterns that last into fall
If your feeder is clogged, contaminated, or unreliable, you’ll lose animals fast—and it could take weeks to reestablish those routines.
Clean, functional feeders are critical to long-term success. You don’t want to be scrambling in August to get deer back on your property. Stay consistent now, and you’ll be steps ahead when hunting season rolls around.
Clean Your Feeder—Inside and Out
Start with a deep clean. Over time, old feed, rain, and humidity can cause buildup, mold, or blockages inside your feeder.
Here’s how to clean your Big Game Feeder:
- Empty all remaining feed and discard anything clumped, discolored, or spoiled
- Use warm water and a mild detergent to scrub the interior
- Let it dry completely before refilling to avoid condensation or mildew
- Wipe down the exterior to remove mud, bird droppings, or grime
- Inspect spinners, tubes, or gravity ports for any feed blockage or corrosion
If your feeder includes electronic parts or a solar panel, gently clean around those areas with a cloth—no pressure washing needed.
Want to get the most out of your setup? See Big Deer Feeder Tips for Optimal April Wildlife Attraction to learn how to make the most of peak traffic seasons.
Watch for Feed Spoilage or Insects
Warm weather = moisture + bugs.
You’ll want to check your feed for:
- Clumping or condensation (a sign of humidity inside the barrel)
- Visible mold or dark spots
- Insects (weevils, ants, beetles)
- Rats, raccoons, or birds that may have nested inside
Once every few weeks, pour out a small handful and inspect it. Fresh feed should be loose, dry, and uniform in color.
Tip:
Store extra feed in sealed containers off the ground in a shaded shed or barn. This keeps it fresher and prevents pests before they hit your feeder.
Adjust Feeder Settings for Seasonal Use
If you’re using a timed or automatic feeder, now’s a good time to update your settings.
Recommended Spring/Summer Settings:
- Frequency: 1–2 times per day
- Timing: Early morning and just before dusk
- Duration: 5–8 seconds per cycle depending on deer traffic
- Feed Type: High-protein blends, corn + pellet mixes, or mineral-rich blends
Consistent timing trains deer to trust the area and builds movement patterns that extend through the rest of the year.
If you haven’t already, this is also a good time to replace old batteries and test your digital timer.
Want to know when to start your feeder routines in the year? Our blog Why March is Perfect for Setting Up Your Big Deer Feeder covers early-season setup.
Check the Area Around Your Feeder
Don’t overlook the landscape.
- Trim back overgrowth so deer have a clear line of sight
- Clear the ground of wet leaves, moldy feed, or rotting debris
- Keep mineral blocks or watering sources nearby if your property allows
- Use scent control or wind-awareness if you plan to scout in person
If possible, rake a shallow clearing in front of the feeder. This makes it easier to spot tracks and monitor deer activity between camera checks.
And yes—if you’re running trail cams, check batteries, memory cards, and angle for full coverage.
Use Mineral Supplements (If Legal in Your Area)
Many landowners use protein pellets or corn, but summer is a great time to add mineral blocks or powders.
These provide:
- Calcium and phosphorus for antler growth
- Essential nutrients for lactating does
- Sodium to support hydration and bodily function
Place mineral blocks 15–20 feet from the feeder, or in a separate spot near a water source. Just be sure to check local game laws—some areas restrict supplemental minerals during summer or pre-season.
Protect Feeders from Raccoons, Rodents & Birds
You’re not the only one interested in that tasty feed.
Pests are a major threat to feeder systems—especially when you’re not checking them weekly.
To protect your feeder:
- Install a varmint cage around the spinner
- Use grease or PVC pipe on legs to make climbing difficult
- Add a cone or baffle to deter squirrels
- Avoid placing feeders under trees or power lines (birds will perch and poop)
- Check for chew marks or signs of intrusion weekly
Feeder damage is expensive. Prevention costs less.
Rotate Locations If Possible
If you’ve been running the same feeder in the same spot for years, it might be time to move.
Reasons to rotate:
- Reduce soil compaction and over-browsing
- Avoid buildup of waste and bacteria
- Help deer explore new feeding zones
- Reduce pressure and increase daylight activity
Even shifting the feeder 50 yards can make a big difference.
If you’re using multiple feeders across your property, rotate one at a time to avoid disrupting established travel routes.
Keep an Eye on Trail Cam Data
This is your best source of truth.
If deer aren’t showing up—or only arriving after dark—it might be time to:
Adjust feed timing
Check for human scent or intrusion
Move the feeder slightly
Clear better approach paths
Improve visibility and access
Use this time of year to build trust and routine. By fall, your pattern will be solid—and your chances higher.
Use EvergreenBGF Gear to Simplify Maintenance
Managing feeders doesn’t have to mean dragging gear across your property in 100° heat.
Here’s how EvergreenBGF helps:
- Use the Range Box to store gloves, trail cam cards, batteries, tools, and scents
- Bring the Tri-Folding Seated Utility Toolbox to sit while you clean, organize feed, or field-maintain your feeder
- Use the Stainless Steel Portable Fire Pit for hot coffee or lunch while you scout, repair, and monitor activity
They’re rugged, mobile, and built for real work—not just backyard storage.
FAQs About Feeder Maintenance
Q: How often should I check my feeder in summer?
At least every 2–3 weeks—more often if you notice reduced activity.
Q: Is corn enough to feed in the summer?
Corn is okay, but protein and mineral blends offer better nutritional value during growth seasons.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent raccoons?
Use varmint cages, grease feeder legs, and avoid placing feeders near trees or overhangs.
Q: Should I stop feeding during fawning season?
No. Supplemental feeding supports lactating does and helps stabilize nutrition when natural forage is thin.
Deer feeder maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be consistent. A clean, functional feeder in late spring and early summer sets the tone for your entire year.
It keeps deer healthy, loyal to your land, and visible on your trail cams. With EvergreenBGF gear at your side—from Range Boxes to rugged toolboxes and portable fire pits—feeder maintenance becomes faster, easier, and way more enjoyable.
Take care of your setup now, and your fall season will thank you.
Need the right gear to simplify your feeder maintenance routine?
Explore rugged, field-ready gear at EvergreenBGF.com—built for real outdoor work and smarter wildlife management.