Wildlife Feed: Mixes and supplements for deer and garden hedgehogs

Wildlife Feed: What belongs at the feeding site

Good wildlife feed follows what roe and red deer would find in nature: lots of structure, little hard to digest starch and a balanced mineral supply. That is exactly what the Leimüller mixes are designed for. Alongside them you will find apple pomace, lucerne hay and organic maize, salt licks for minerals and hedgehog food for anyone who wants to help wildlife in the garden.

Structure first, then energy

Ruminants such as roe and red deer need plenty of crude fibre above all, so their digestion keeps working smoothly. Lucerne hay and dried apple pomace provide just that and are ideal for stretching or enriching compound feed. Organic maize, on the other hand, supplies quick energy and is best used sparingly, for example as a supplement in very cold spells. Get the balance right and you keep your deer healthy while reducing the browsing damage that a one sided diet can cause.

The right feed for every species

Roe deer are selective feeders that prefer varied, easily digestible mixes, whereas red deer eat more and need heartier rations. That is why the subcategories offer dedicated roe deer feed and red deer feed, along with salt licks and salt paste made from rock crystal or natural rock salt. Small garden visitors are not forgotten either: Leimüller hedgehog food comes grain free or as the Classic. Please follow the rules in your country for any feeding, as the timing and type of winter feeding are regulated differently.

Frequently asked questions

Can I mix my own deer feed with apple pomace?
Yes, many hunters add dried apple pomace or lucerne hay to their compound feed. The key is to change rations gradually over several days so the deer can get used to them. Only mix as much as will be eaten within a short time.

Is maize a suitable feed for roe deer?
Maize provides a lot of energy but very little structure. For roe deer it only makes sense in small amounts as an extra and should never be the main ration. High fibre mixes are the better choice for everyday feeding.

How much deer feed do I need for one winter?
That depends on deer numbers, the weather and how long the hard spell lasts, so there is no single answer. Watch how quickly the feeding site empties and top it up before it is completely cleared. A small reserve in storage helps if winter arrives suddenly.