hi,does any one use hey bales as a feed for atracting deer,and to ensure no squirls will compete on the feeder ? Also, would some molasses on it will make it more appealing ??
TOONS
SAFTY IS # 1

I don' t think you will be able to attract the deer with hay bales at this time of year. Too much green forage, that is if your spring was as wet as around here. In the dead of winter when nothing is available they might go for it. If you can put in a small splot of Buckwheat, annual rye mixed with some Ladino clover, you have a better chance of attracting deer. If you set out hay, after a few rains it will mildew, and then it' s done for. Nutritionally, hay is used to feed livestock when nothing else is available and is usually supplemented with some cereal grains such as corn oats, etc. Maybe someone else on here may have some more ideas.
Russ

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Hay is a waste of time. Deer prefer young growth, and fresh forbes. Plus hay would have little nutritional value for them. If your simply looking for an attractant. I' d at least consider something of nutritional value as well. Mineral licks come to mind that are high in calcium, and not all salt. I' ve placed those out, and poured molasses or mixed in a bag of corn to get the deer attracted to it. Once they found it, they were digging holes in the ground. Some feed stores can mix up mineral supplements for a reasonable price. Its more cost effective then buying it from big name brands.

Hay bales are not usually used until the late winter. It' s dry...