Unfortunately, you may be inviting deer to your backyard. The same food that you put in your bird feeder could draw deer and other unwanted wildlife to the neighborhood. Here are a few suggestions to keep them away.

• Install fencing around the bird feeder, leaving the top open. Deer fences have mesh large enough for birds to fit in and birds are able to fly down to the feeder from the top.
• Apply a deer repellent. Commercial repellants are available at home and garden stores, or use natural repellants such as cayenne pepper, dirty human hair or manure. Although they have limited impact, they are somewhat effective at repelling deer.
• Take your feeders in at dusk and put them back out in the morning. Deer often forage at night. Removing your feeders at night may help eliminate some of the problem.
• Clean up any spilled seeds that could attract deer, rodents and other wildlife.
• Raise the bird feeders six or more feet off the ground, out of the deer's reach.

In addition to the bird food, deer prefer many types of plants that gardeners often enjoy in their yards and gardens. Tulips, hostas, crocuses, lilies, daisies, impatiens, arborvitae, fir, yews and fruit-bearing trees are some of the deer’s favorite foods. Experts suggest planting deer resistant plants, shrubs and trees to deter deer. Aromatic plants such as dill, garlic or chives also discourage deer. Your local library or home and garden center can provide additional information on deer resistant plants.

Deer are creatures of habit, and anything out of the ordinary can scare them. Dogs can be an effective deterrent. Noisemakers, lights and reflectors often work but must be moved frequently because deer quickly adapt to changes.