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How to Maintain Automatic Game Feeders

An automatic game feeder can be useful to lure deer, turkey and other wildlife to your property. Animals aren't stupid, though: If the feeder is broken or poorly maintained, they'll give up and look for a meal elsewhere. Most automatic game feeders consist of three basic parts: a battery, timer and feed container. All three elements require periodic maintenance if you want wildlife to continue appearing underneath your feeder.

Instructions

- 1
  Check the battery at least once every month. Most game feeders have timers that are controlled by batteries. You can use a voltage meter. Make sure your battery is well-protected from rain and other potential sources of moisture. Check the wiring to make sure rodents or other animals haven't nibbled through it.
- 2
  Synchronize your timer at least once every month. Animals, like humans, become creatures of habit and expect meals at certain times. If the feed isn't there when they expect it, they'll stop visiting. Don't forget to also adjust your timer twice every year for the beginning and ending of Daylight Savings Time. Be alert for a lack of change in feed levels, which may be the sign of a dead battery.
- 3
  Clean the feed container at least twice per year, and more frequently if the feed gets wet. Animals won't eat soggy, moldy feed. The mold left by wet feed also can spoil future batches of feed. Wet feed also will clog the feeder, causing animals to stop visiting your property.

Animals & Science