Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)

Below are some common questions I’ve run across. If you have a question that isn’t answered, contact us using the form at the bottom of the page.

  • What do you do with them? How to make money? – There are a few different business models to include: 1. Collecting urine for hunting scents, 2. A family friendly “zoo” setting, 3. Sell to hunting preserves where they will be harvested and consumed. 4. Raised for meat production.
  • Why is everyone in this industry so nice? – This is mostly true, we rely on each other for advice, guidance, and help. However, be aware that some of these ‘nice’ people will take advantage of you in a heartbeat and it could be years before you realize it (ie overpaying for a bad producing doe). To protect yourself, 1. Visit several farms that don’t have affiliation with each other (ie not friends) and ask about the others’ reputation. 2. Never purchase without seeing in person and their offspring if possible. 3. Never purchase any livestock unless they are, or can be, registered in the North American Deer Registry (NADR). 4. Do business with members of KALA. 5. If it’s too good to be true, it is. 6. Just because someone posts something as fact on Facebook with confidence, doesn’t mean they know what they’re talking about.
  • How much land is needed? – Depends on how big you want your business to be. At a minimum 1 acre which could safely hold 15 deer in my opinion. Anymore than that and you’ll run into health issues. Keep in mind they multiple quick!
  • Who regulates the industry? – Cervid are livestock in Kentucky and are therefore are regulated by the Department of Agriculture. However, fencing is regulated by the Department of Fish & Wildlife. This industry is the most regulated of all livestock.
  • How much does it cost to get started? – Depends what your goals are. Refer to the “What’s it Cost” page for more information.
  • How do I raise calm deer? – Bottle raising fawns is the most effective way, and time consuming, process to keep your deer calm. The second most effective way is spending time in the pens with them. The more they are around you, the calmer they will be.
  • Do I need a handling facility? – No, but that is a lower cost option if running large amounts of cervid. Otherwise use a projector to sedate your livestock.
  • How much does a doe sell for? – Many factors will affect this including pedigree, age, production, and purpose for selling. Low end unpedigreed bred doe will be around $2,000 whereas a higher end auction doe could be more than $10,000. On average for a mid range breeding stock doe, anticipate to pay $3,000 (more or less). Markets change frequently, this amounts could be outdated by the time you read this.
  • How much does a buck sell for? – Again, many factors. “Stocker” bucks are typically sold for around $23/inch however a buck that has the ‘look’ will go for much more. Breeders typically have the ‘look’ and depending on pedigree, will sell from a range of $6,000 to $15,000.
  • What are the risks with raising deer? – Sickness is always a risk in livestock, EHD is the most deadly however other illnesses like pneumonia do occur and require treatment. Cervid are skiddish by nature, a stray dog running along the fence could cause them to hit the fence and cause injury or worse. Even wild predators may pose a risk, highly recommend electric fence on the perimeter.
  • When will I start making money? – Most money will be made by selling 2 year old bucks which will take time if starting with bred does. You will need to float the business for at least 2 years before it pays for itself. It could take longer depending on your expenses and business acumen.
  • What type of feed do I use? – Many opinions on the best, it is generally agreed to have a feed that is 16% – 18% protein, 12% fiber, and 6% fat. This will vary depending on climate. Most feed mills will work with you to create a feed to your liking (or may already have one). Alternatively you can purchase from Record Rack or Purina which will come at a higher cost.

Still Have Questions? Contact us below!

If you’re interested in becoming a cervid farmer, contact us today!

About Us

We’re a family farm located in Hodgenville who have always been drawn to the outdoors. We wanted to utilize our land in a way that would incorporate the entire family, keep our interest, and is unique. Whitetail deer checked all of those boxes and more.

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