Mineral Licks and ANtler Growth

glew22 · 05-05-2008, 04:17 PM

I put out 13 mineral licks between 3/10 and 3/14 in seperate areas mostly near bedding areas. My question is for those who use the dical/phosphate, trace mineral salt, and stock salt....have you noticed an increase in antler growth??

rutt · 05-05-2008, 07:37 PM

I've put out the home made mineral lick ingredients for a few yearsand the deer never used it.I've tried it in various locations with no results at all.However;they absolutely love the Trophy Rocks I put out.I'm stillscratching my head on this one.

Geronimo · 05-05-2008, 09:02 PM

Where are you located?

glew22 · 05-06-2008, 10:59 AM

I'm in SE PA.

GMMAT · 05-06-2008, 11:05 AM

I'm in my 3rd year of putting out minerals. I honestly can't see a spike in antler growth.....either on camera or on bucks I personally see.

BUT.....(no. 1)....I saw at least 17 different 1.5 and 2.5 yr olds in the '06 season that I never laid eyes on, again. Who knows if this helped them, or not?

I also can't be sure everyhting with the bucks I have seen isn't related directly to genetics.

But...(no. 2)....I'm sure the does are reaping the benefits, too. For this reason, alone, I'll continue to place minerals out for them.

wallhangr · 05-06-2008, 01:48 PM

I actually see more does using the licks than bucks, and I put out even more licks this year.

pirogue · 05-07-2008, 10:13 PM

They are not going to get larger antlers from salt. Spend a few cents more and get Purina brand "Antler Max" blocks or pellets, which are high in protein, but more importantly, especially formulated for deer.