For the Good of the Herd
Minerals are the building blocks for growth. Deer skeletons serve as "banks" for bone-building minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Early in life, mineral intake contributes directly to skeletal development. Once the skeletal system has fully matured (typically around 4-5 years), the amount of minerals available for antler development increases significantly.
Antlers are the fastest growing bones on Earth, with some bucks growing 200 inches of antler in just 90 days. Fast growth is necessary since deer drop their antlers and regenerate a new set annually. Deer obtain minerals through consumption of native browse and naturally occurring mineral deposits (where available). However, these sources often are inadequate, forcing bucks to “rob” nutrients from their skeletal systems in a form of controlled osteoporosis. This is especially true given that most soils in the United States are lacking in key minerals. The addition of Evolved minerals helps minimize the drain on a buck’s skeletal system and allows them to achieve their full genetic potential.
Benefits
- Maximizes overall herd health.
- Helps balance digestion during spring due to high potassium intake.
- Contributes to larger bodies and antlers.
- Aids gestation/milk production.
- Increases fawn production and survival.
- Boosts immune system and disease resistance.
- Attracts and hold deer on a property.
- Provides reliable locations for trail camera photos.
Mineral Types
- Calcium: Milk production, bone/teeth/antler formation and improved nerve/muscle functionality.
- Phosphorus: Bone/teeth/antler formation and milk production.
- Magnesium: Normal skeletal development, enzyme systems, and digestion.
- Sodium: Body fluid regulation, digestive juice creation, and muscle contraction.
- Potassium: Muscle formation, electrolyte balance, and nerve impulses.
- Vitamin K: Bone density growth and blood coagulation.
Mineral Site Prep and Maintenance
*Be sure to follow all state and local laws regarding the use of minerals in your area.
Selecting a Mineral Site
Look for high-traffic areas: corridors between food and bedding areas, active deer trails, natural funnels, and feeding areas. Place sites 8 to10 feet off an active trail or food plot with natural cover and security to encourage frequent visits. The perfect location would have moist clay soil (minerals leach quickly in sandy, porous soils) with a nearby water source. Rotting stumps or logs make excellent locations because they work like a sponge to soak up and retain minerals.
Establishing a Mineral Site
Remove all vegetation from the area in a 4- to 6-foot diameter. Loosen the soil with a rake and make a slight depression to hold some rainfall and impede runoff. If using a bagged mix, spread the entire contents over the site area. Liquid formulas can be poured directly on the ground, over decaying stumps/logs, or mixed with feeds and grain. For bricks, simply rest on the ground or a stump. Do not cover with dirt, leaves or debris.
Number of Mineral Sites
The appropriate number of mineral sites depends on the availability of quality forage in the area and deer density. As a rule of thumb, one mineral site for every 75-100 acres will supplement an average deer population. If you're unable to create multiple locations, enlarge existing sites to 8 to 10 feet in diameter.
Managing a Mineral Site
Minerals can remain active for up to a year after initial application depending on soil type, rainfall, and deer activity. However, maintenance is critical to keep a site active. For optimal results, establish (or refresh) sites prior to spring green-up and refresh every 45-60 days until autumn.