Here's why:
* Deer have a strong sense of smell, but it's primarily focused on food sources and predators. They're more likely to be attracted to the scent of food than repelled by the smell of cooking.
* The scent of cooking food is usually diluted and masked by other environmental scents. Unless you're standing right next to a deer while cooking, the smell is unlikely to be strong enough to be noticeable to them.
* Deer are creatures of habit and often become accustomed to the smells in their environment. If you frequently cook outdoors, deer may learn to ignore the scent.
Instead of relying on cooking smells, here are some more effective ways to deter deer:
* Motion-activated sprinklers: These startle deer with a spray of water.
* Fencing: A solid fence, at least 8 feet high, can keep deer out of your garden.
* Deer repellent sprays: There are various sprays available that contain scents that deer find unpleasant.
* Plants that deer don't like: There are many plants that deer naturally avoid, like lavender, garlic, and chives.
While cooking might not scare deer away, it's always a good idea to be mindful of your surroundings and take steps to protect your property from these curious creatures.