Why Feeder Protection Matters

Protecting your game feeder is essential not just to maintain the quality of feed but to ensure the steady attraction of game to your location. Without protection, feeders can suffer from common challenges like feed loss, mechanical damage, and environmental wear. Wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels, hogs, and even large animals like bears often tamper with feeders, damaging equipment and wasting valuable feed. In addition, weather-related issues—rain, wind, extreme heat, and moisture buildup—can cause feeder deterioration over time.

Moultrie offers innovative solutions that go beyond basic feeder functions, providing a range of feeder accessories and protective measures to guard against both wildlife interference and environmental factors. Below, we’ll explore these protection strategies and highlight how Moultrie’s products can help keep your feeders secure, durable, and efficient.

Understanding the Threats to Your Feeder

Common Wildlife Threats to Feeders

Wildlife interference is one of the leading causes of feeder damage and feed loss. Here’s a look at the common animals that can cause issues and the specific impacts they have:

• Raccoons and Squirrels: These small animals are notorious for accessing feeders and consuming feed, leading to significant loss. They can climb and tamper with feeders, often resulting in mechanical damage.
• Hogs: Hogs not only consume large quantities of feed but can also tip over or break feeders entirely.
• Bears: Bears are perhaps the most destructive of all. When they access a feeder, they often cause substantial physical damage, rendering feeders unusable.

Environmental Factors and How They Can Damage Feeders

Environmental factors are also key in determining feeder longevity:

• Rain and Moisture: Consistent exposure to rain can cause rust and corrosion in feeders, particularly those without weatherproofing features. Moultrie feeders are comprised of weather resistant materials that protects from the elements and reduces the chance of moisture also spoiling feed.
• Wind: Strong winds can displace feeders, causing them to tip over or get damaged if they’re not properly secured. In exposed areas that experience high wind, the metal feeder feet can be used to secure tripod style feeders into the ground with staking.
• Temperature Extremes: Freezing temperatures or extreme heat can cause wear on feeder materials, making them more susceptible to breakage and malfunction.

Moultrie’s Top Feeder Protection Solutions

Moultrie Feeder Accessories for Protection

Moultrie has designed several feeder accessories specifically to enhance feeder protection. Here are some of the most effective ones:

• Varmint Guards: These guards and universal varmint deterrents are designed to prevent smaller animals, like raccoons and squirrels, from accessing the feed area. They’re easy to install and highly effective at reducing feed loss.
• Feeder Feet: To combat tipping by larger animals like hogs, Moultrie offers feeder feet. These feet secure feeders firmly in place or above the ground, minimizing the chance of displacement.

Advanced Moultrie Technologies

Moultrie Mobile offers technology solutions that make feeder management even easier:

• Remote Monitoring: Moultrie’s cellular technology or our FEED HUB which allows users to monitor feeder activity and check feed levels remotely. Alerts notify you if something unusual occurs, giving you peace of mind even when you’re not nearby.
• Regular Maintenance Reminders: With the Moultrie Mobile App, you can schedule maintenance reminders to check feeder conditions regularly, helping to prevent problems before they arise.

Practical Tips for Protecting Your Feeder

Securing Your Feeder Against Pests

While varmint guards and anchors are effective, here are additional tips to minimize pest interference:

• Install a Cage or Mesh Around the Feeder: Adding a simple cage or mesh around the feeder can be an effective way to keep smaller animals away from the feed.
• Elevate the Feeder: Placing your feeder higher up using our hoisting system, out of the reach of smaller animals, can deter raccoons, squirrels, and other ground-based pests.

Elevating or Enclosing Feeders

For larger animals like bears, elevating or enclosing feeders is particularly effective:

• Increase Installation Height: Position feeders at a height that’s out of reach of larger wildlife, such as hogs and bears, to protect them from damage and interference.
• Build a Protective Enclosure: A simple wooden or metal cage can add extra security around feeders, especially if they are positioned in high-bear areas. Make sure to leave space for feeder operation while preventing direct animal access.

Additional Accessories to Consider for Feeder Protection

Adding accessories can significantly enhance the durability of your feeder:

• Solar Chargers: Solar chargers keep feeders running reliably, reducing dependency on traditional batteries. This ensures that feeders remain functional regardless of weather or power needs.
• Spinner Plates and Metal Hoppers: These components, made of metal, resist rust and last longer than plastic alternatives, making them ideal for feeders exposed to harsh environments.

Protecting your feeder is an essential step for people who want to get the most out of their feeding systems. Moultrie’s range of accessories and feeder options offers solutions tailored to a wide variety of needs, from wildlife management to hunting preparation. With options for pest protection, weatherproofing, and enhanced durability, Moultrie feeders make it easier than ever to preserve your feed and equipment over time.

Feeder Protection FAQs

Q: How can I weatherproof my game feeder?

A: Moultrie feeders are designed to withstand all-weather conditions but accessories like metal feeder feet can prevent damage from wind. 

Q: What feeder accessories should I consider for long-term feeder maintenance?

A: Consider solar chargers, metal hoppers, and durable spinner plates to ensure feeders remain functional and weather-resistant.

Q: How do I prevent squirrels and raccoons from accessing my feeder?

A: Use varmint guards and consider elevating the feeder to deter small animals from reaching the feed.