The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Wildlife Feeding: Introducing the Moultrie Gravity Feeder Kit

For outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife managers, and land owners dedicated to fostering thriving game populations, establishing a reliable and consistent food source is paramount. Whether your goal is to support healthier deer herds, attract turkey, or simply observe local wildlife, the challenge often lies in finding a feeding solution that is both effective and low-maintenance. This is where the Moultrie MFG13338 Gravity Feeder Kit emerges as an indispensable tool, offering a hands-off approach to supplemental feeding that respects the natural habits of animals while simplifying your management tasks.

Imagine a feeding system that doesn't require batteries, complicated timers, or frequent checks. A system that dispenses feed on demand, allowing animals to access nutrition whenever they need it, mimicking a more natural foraging experience. This is precisely what the Moultrie Gravity Feeder Kit provides. It's designed for those who seek efficiency, durability, and a discreet presence in the wilderness.

Why Choose a Gravity Feeder for Wildlife Management?

When considering methods for supplemental feeding, many land managers often weigh the pros and cons of various feeder types. Automatic feeders, while capable of precise scheduling, rely on mechanical parts and battery power, which can fail or require frequent attention, especially in remote areas. Gravity feeders, on the other hand, offer a robust and reliable alternative, providing feed whenever an animal nudges the opening.

The Moultrie Gravity Feeder Kit excels in scenarios where:

• Remote Locations are Common: You need a feeder that can be deployed in areas without easy access to power or where frequent visits are impractical.
• Low Maintenance is Key: You desire a system that operates continuously without the need for timers, motors, or battery changes.
• Natural Feeding Patterns are Encouraged: Animals can eat at their leisure, promoting a more natural foraging behavior rather than waiting for a timed dispense.
• Durability in Harsh Environments is Crucial: You require equipment that can withstand varied weather conditions, from intense sun to freezing temperatures.
• Budget-Conscious Solutions are Preferred: You're looking for an effective feeding solution without the higher initial cost and ongoing operational expenses (like batteries) associated with automated systems.

This kit addresses the core questions many outdoorsmen ask: "What's the best deer feeder for a property I don't visit daily?" or "How can I provide consistent nutrition to wildlife without complex electronics?" The answer lies in the simplicity and inherent reliability of a well-designed gravity feeder like the Moultrie MFG13338.

Unpacking the Moultrie MFG13338 Gravity Feeder Kit: Features and Benefits

The Moultrie MFG13338 is not just a simple funnel; it's a thoughtfully engineered solution designed to integrate seamlessly into your wildlife management strategy. This black gravity feeder kit is built to last and perform, offering a suite of features that contribute to its effectiveness and user satisfaction.

Key Design Elements and Their Advantages:

• Gravity-Fed System: At its core, the system operates on the principle of gravity. As feed is consumed from the ports at the bottom, more feed automatically drops down from the main hopper to replenish it. This ensures a continuous supply of feed, allowing deer, turkey, and other animals to access food 24/7 without interruption. It eliminates the need for batteries, timers, or electronic components, drastically reducing potential points of failure and ongoing costs.
• Robust Construction: The kit is crafted from heavy-duty, UV-resistant plastic. This material choice is critical for outdoor equipment, as it prevents degradation from sun exposure, ensuring the feeder maintains its structural integrity and aesthetic over many seasons. The durability means it can withstand impacts from wildlife, harsh weather, and the rigors of outdoor use, offering a long service life.
• Powder-Coated Steel Components: Complementing the sturdy plastic, critical components are made from powder-coated steel. This treatment provides superior resistance to rust and corrosion, extending the life of parts exposed to moisture and the elements. This attention to detail in material selection ensures the feeder remains reliable in diverse climates.
• Adjustable Flow Baffles: One of the standout features of this kit is its adjustable flow baffles. This allows users to control the rate at which feed is dispensed and, more importantly, to accommodate different types and sizes of feed. Whether you're using shelled corn, protein pellets, or a custom feed mix, you can fine-tune the feeder to prevent clogging and ensure optimal flow, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. This answers the common question, "Can I use different types of feed in a gravity feeder?" Yes, with this Moultrie kit, you have that flexibility.
• Multiple Feeding Ports: The design typically includes multiple feeding ports, allowing several animals to feed simultaneously. This reduces competition at the feeder and encourages more animals to visit, which is crucial for maximizing the impact of your supplemental feeding program and promoting herd health.
• Easy Installation: The kit is designed for straightforward attachment to a compatible barrel or hopper (typically a 30-gallon or 55-gallon drum, depending on the feeder's specific design, which the MFG13338 is designed for a 30-gallon drum). Mounting hardware is usually included, simplifying the setup process for even novice users. The focus on ease of use means you can have your feeding station operational quickly, allowing you to spend more time on other land management activities.
• Capacity Integration: When paired with a 30-gallon drum, this kit can hold a substantial amount of feed, often up to 200 pounds of shelled corn. This large capacity reduces the frequency of refills, making it ideal for remote locations or for those with busy schedules. Less disturbance at the feeder also means less human scent and presence, encouraging more natural wildlife behavior.

Advantages for Wildlife and Land Managers:

• Promotes Healthier Herds: Consistent access to supplemental feed, especially during lean seasons or periods of high stress (like antler growth or gestation), significantly contributes to the overall health, vigor, and reproductive success of deer and other game.
• Reduces Browsing Pressure: By providing an alternative food source, a gravity feeder can help reduce the pressure on natural vegetation, allowing food plots and natural forage to recover or thrive.
• Effective Game Attraction: A reliable food source acts as a powerful attractant, helping to draw and hold game on your property, which is beneficial for both hunting and observation purposes.
• Cost-Effective Long Term: While there's an initial investment, the absence of battery replacements, motor repairs, and complex electronics translates into lower ongoing operational costs. Its durability also means less frequent replacement.
• Minimal Human Disturbance: Since the feeder operates continuously without human intervention, it reduces the need for frequent visits, thereby minimizing human scent and presence that can spook wary game.

Setting Up Your Moultrie MFG13338 Gravity Feeder Kit

One of the greatest appeals of the Moultrie MFG13338 is its relatively simple setup process. While specific instructions will come with your kit, the general steps involve:

1. Select Your Hopper: The Moultrie MFG13338 is designed to be mounted to a standard 30-gallon plastic or metal drum (not included with the kit). Ensure your chosen drum is clean, dry, and structurally sound.
2. Prepare the Drum: You will need to cut an opening in the bottom of your drum according to the kit's template or instructions. This opening allows the feed to drop into the feeder head. Precision here is key for optimal performance.
3. Attach the Feeder Kit: Securely mount the Moultrie Gravity Feeder Kit to the prepared opening at the bottom of the drum using the provided hardware. Ensure a tight, weather-resistant seal to prevent moisture from entering and spoiling the feed.
4. Position Your Feeder: Once assembled, the hopper-feeder unit needs to be elevated. This can be achieved by hanging it from a strong tree limb, mounting it on robust legs (often sold separately or custom-built), or placing it on a sturdy platform. Elevation helps keep the feed dry, prevents ground-dwelling animals from easily accessing it, and makes it more accessible for deer. Aim for a height that allows deer to comfortably feed from the ports.
5. Fill with Feed: Once the unit is stable and secure, fill the drum with your desired feed (e.g., shelled corn, protein pellets, mixed grains). Ensure the feed is dry and free of debris.
6. Adjust Flow Baffles: Based on the type of feed you're using and your desired dispensing rate, adjust the internal baffles. Experimentation may be required to find the perfect setting that prevents clogging and ensures a steady flow.

Proper setup is crucial for maximizing the efficiency and longevity of your gravity feeder. When installed correctly, the Moultrie MFG13338 becomes a reliable asset in your wildlife management efforts for years to come.

Common Questions About Gravity Feeders and the Moultrie MFG13338

Users often have practical questions when considering a gravity feeder. Here are some of the most frequently asked, along with insights specific to the Moultrie MFG13338:

Q: What kind of animals will use this feeder?
A: Primarily, the Moultrie MFG13338 is optimized for deer and wild turkey. Its port design and elevation capabilities make it ideal for these larger game animals. While other wildlife might investigate, the primary benefit is seen with deer and turkey populations.

Q: How much feed can it hold?
A: When paired with a 30-gallon drum (the intended pairing for this kit), it can typically hold up to 200 pounds of shelled corn or a comparable volume of other feeds. This substantial capacity greatly reduces the frequency of refills.

Q: Does it waste a lot of feed?
A: The design of the Moultrie MFG13338, particularly with its adjustable flow baffles and enclosed ports, is engineered to minimize waste. Feed is only dispensed when an animal actively pushes on the port, preventing spoilage from rain or excessive spillage from wind. Proper adjustment of the baffles for your specific feed type is key to reducing waste.

Q: Is it difficult to refill?
A: Refilling depends on your setup. If the feeder is hung, you might need a ladder or a winch system. If it's on a leg stand, it's generally quite accessible. The wide opening of a standard drum makes pouring feed relatively easy, especially from bags.

Q: Can squirrels or raccoons be a problem?
A: While no feeder is entirely "critter-proof," the elevation and design of a gravity feeder like the Moultrie MFG13338 make it less accessible to smaller nuisance animals compared to ground feeding. Mounting it high enough and considering a predator guard around the hanging mechanism can further deter climbers. The robust construction also withstands their attempts to chew through it.

Q: How long will the feed last in the hopper?
A: The duration depends on several factors: the number of animals feeding, the type of feed, and the time of year (animals typically eat more in colder months). With a 200-pound capacity, it can last from several weeks to over a month in a typical scenario, significantly reducing the need for frequent site visits.

Q: Is it truly maintenance-free?
A: While it doesn't require electronic maintenance, periodic checks are recommended. This includes ensuring the feed flows freely, checking for any debris in the ports, and ensuring the feeder remains securely mounted. Occasionally, a quick wash-out between fills can keep it clean and prevent mold buildup, especially with moist feeds.

Moultrie: A Trusted Name in Wildlife Solutions

Moultrie has long been a reputable brand in the hunting and wildlife management industry, known for producing durable, reliable, and user-friendly products. The MFG13338 Gravity Feeder Kit is a testament to this legacy, reflecting Moultrie's commitment to providing effective tools for managing and attracting game. Their products are designed with the end-user in mind, incorporating features that simplify outdoor tasks and enhance the overall experience. When you choose a Moultrie product, you're investing in a solution that's trusted by a community of dedicated outdoorsmen.

For those looking to enhance their wildlife management efforts with the Moultrie MFG13338 Gravity Feeder Kit, it is available from DEGuns. As a leading retailer of outdoor and shooting sports equipment, DEGuns offers a convenient and reliable source for all your Moultrie needs, ensuring you receive genuine products backed by excellent customer service.

Key Product Specifications and Details

Feature	Detail
Product Name	Moultrie Gravity Feeder Kit Black
Model Number	MFG13338
UPC	053695133386
Feeder Type	Gravity-fed
Color	Black
Construction Material	Heavy-duty, UV-resistant Plastic with Powder-coated Steel Components
Feed Capacity	Up to 200 lbs (when attached to a 30-gallon drum, drum not included)
Key Features	No batteries required, Adjustable flow baffles, Multiple feed ports, Easy setup
Ideal For	Deer, Wild Turkey, and other large game
Benefits	Consistent feed, Low maintenance, Encourages natural feeding, Durable