Creating a homemade deer feeder funnel can be a practical and cost-effective way to attract and feed deer in your area. Here’s a simple guide on how to make a deer feeder funnel:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Large Plastic Drum: You’ll need a clean and sturdy plastic drum with a lid. A 55-gallon drum is a common choice.
- PVC Pipe (4-inch diameter): This will serve as the funnel.
- Hacksaw or PVC Pipe Cutter: To cut the PVC pipe to the desired length.
- Drill with Hole Saw Attachment: For making holes in the drum and PVC pipe.
- Screws or Bolts: To attach the PVC pipe to the drum.
- Caulk or Silicone Sealant: For sealing the connections to prevent water and moisture from entering.
- Rope or Chain (optional): To hang the feeder.
Steps:
- Prepare the Drum:
- Ensure that the drum is clean and free of any contaminants. Rinse it thoroughly if necessary.
- Cut the PVC Pipe:
- Measure the desired length for the PVC pipe, which will serve as the funnel. The length should be sufficient to allow deer to reach the feed comfortably. A common length is around 3 to 4 feet. Use a hacksaw or PVC pipe cutter to cut the pipe to the desired length.
- Create Openings:
- Using a hole saw attachment on your drill, create a hole in the bottom of the drum. This is where the PVC pipe will be inserted. The size of the hole should match the diameter of the PVC pipe.
- Attach the PVC Pipe:
- Insert one end of the PVC pipe into the hole you created in the drum. Ensure that it fits snugly. Use screws or bolts to secure the PVC pipe to the drum, creating a watertight seal.
- Create Feeder Openings:
- Drill several small holes near the base of the PVC pipe to allow the deer access to the feed. These holes should be large enough for the deer to comfortably reach in and feed.
- Seal Connections:
- Apply caulk or silicone sealant around the connection point where the PVC pipe meets the drum. This helps prevent water and moisture from entering the drum and spoiling the feed.
- Fill the Feeder:
- Open the lid of the drum and fill it with deer feed or corn. Make sure the lid is securely closed to keep the feed dry and protected from wildlife.
- Hang or Position the Feeder:
- You can hang the feeder from a tree branch or attach it to a sturdy post or platform. Use rope or chain to hang it securely.
- Monitor and Refill:
- Regularly check the feeder to ensure it stays filled with feed. Depending on the local deer population and other wildlife, you may need to refill it periodically.
- Adjust as Needed:
- If you find that the feeder isn’t attracting deer as expected, you can adjust the height or location to make it more appealing to them.
Remember to check your local laws and regulations regarding feeding wildlife and the use of deer feeders, as regulations can vary by region. Additionally, maintaining a consistent feeding schedule can help attract deer to your feeder over time.
