Why Feeding Deer in Winter Harms Survival, Health, and Safety

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Nature equips deer with thick winter coats and fat reserves, making them perfectly adapted to survive harsh winter conditions without human intervention.

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Deer that develop corn toxicity from consuming grains like corn can die within 6-10 hours due to harmful stomach acid buildup.

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Wildlife experts warn that artificial feeding sites become disease hotspots, accelerating the spread of deadly Chronic Wasting Disease among deer populations.

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Competition at feeding sites forces smaller deer and fawns into starvation as aggressive adults dominate the limited food resources.

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Deer lose their natural fear of humans when fed regularly, leading to dangerous encounters and increased vehicle collisions in residential areas.

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Many states and municipalities have banned deer feeding due to its detrimental effects on wildlife health and behavior.

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Expert Becky Fuda emphasizes that deer naturally reduce movement and metabolism in winter, requiring fewer nutrients than people assume.

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Wisconsin DNR specialist Erin Larson reports that grain-induced stomach acid buildup causes severe bloating and dehydration in winter deer.

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Wildlife-friendly alternatives include planting native trees and creating brush piles that provide natural shelter without disrupting deer behavior.

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