How to Get Deer to Come Back if They Were Scared off the Land

Having wild deer on a property can add to the enjoyment of the majestic outdoors. Although deer are naturally very timid and can frighten easily, if a deer has been scared off your property it may return in a few days. However, you can give the deer a reason to come back to your property --- food, the right scents and a safe environment will help keep the deer coming back. Over time, and with gradual exposure, the deer may even get used to being around humans.

Things You'll Need

  • Corn
  • Bread
  • Salt lick
  • Deer scents
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Sprinkle attractive foods where the deer was last seen. Feed corn from a feed bag can be purchased at a feed supply store. Scattering full ears of corn also works. (Other animals, such as mice, may also be attracted to the corn.) Throw slices of bread in the area as well. Dried bread will be consumed by deer if dry; if wet, it may not be eaten.

    • 2

      Set up a salt lick (a large block of salt) --- deer love salt. Animals such as deer have an ongoing need to keep their salt levels high, lest their body chemistry alter and change their disposition and behavior. (The salt lick may also be popular among other animals, such as rodents, who also need salt.)

    • 3

      Spray a deer hunting scent or a doe scent. These can be purchased at a hunting supply store. The doe scent will attract bucks (with antlers); scents such as deer urine may attract does. Do not spray the scent close to the house --- deer will come right up to the source of the scent.

    • 4

      Keep the yard quiet. Pets roaming around outside and loud children or parties will ensure that the deer does not want to return. Keeping your land free from noise and the activities of other creatures will help deer feel safe.