I was curious about watering in the winter when there is snow available for deer. I have been watering my deer, but notice they don't even bother to drink. I'm wondering if they get enough water from eating snow? I have seen them eating snow quite regularly.
Joined Apr 2009
2,617 Posts | 0+
Edgar, WI
Those who don't provide water will swear the deer are fine.
Will they survive? Yes I guess so.
However do you want them to survive or thrive?
It has always been my belief they need plenty of fresh water to allow their digestive systems to work optimally. I also believe they deal better with extremely cold temps. I just feel it improves overall health. And as animal caregivers we have a responsibility to provide the very best care.
Will they survive? Yes I guess so.
However do you want them to survive or thrive?
It has always been my belief they need plenty of fresh water to allow their digestive systems to work optimally. I also believe they deal better with extremely cold temps. I just feel it improves overall health. And as animal caregivers we have a responsibility to provide the very best care.
Joined Apr 2009
1,485 Posts | 0+
Vaughn, MT 59487
Roger is right water in winter even if there is snow is best.
Myself here at zero with fresh snow on the ground I have pens that will be given water every second day for about a month. The pens are to far from electric outlets to get warm water on 255 acres. We try to let most stock in pens that have warm water or are by the creek. But some are still with back up males so get watered the above way if fresh snow is available to them.
If there is no snow or dry snow we water every day as it is best for stock.
I watch wild deer this time of year and see they eat snow as springs and creeks at these temps don't seem to be open for drinking.
Myself here at zero with fresh snow on the ground I have pens that will be given water every second day for about a month. The pens are to far from electric outlets to get warm water on 255 acres. We try to let most stock in pens that have warm water or are by the creek. But some are still with back up males so get watered the above way if fresh snow is available to them.
If there is no snow or dry snow we water every day as it is best for stock.
I watch wild deer this time of year and see they eat snow as springs and creeks at these temps don't seem to be open for drinking.