Guide to Wildlife Identification

Mule Deer

(Odocoileus hemionus hemionus)

Other similar species: Columbia black-tailed deer; Sitka black-tailed deer

Size:

3 ft. (90 cm) tall at shoulder.
Bucks (males) weigh up to 405 lb. (205 kg); does (females) up to160 lb. (70 kg).

Distribution in North America:

Mule deer and the two black-tailed deer species are subspecies of the same species, Odocoileus hemionus. They are mainly separated by geography, size, to some extent color and behavior.

Tracks
front: 2 1/2" x 3"
hind: 2 1/4" x 2 3/4"

Habitat:

Lives in a wide variety of habitats such as coniferous forests, desert shrubland, grassland with shrubs and the mixed boreal forests of the north.
Favors openings in these areas, browsing on shrubs and twigs (and grass and herbs at times).
In summer they tend to migrate to higher elevations and move to lower elevations with less snowfall in the winter.
Winter range is often shared with elk, white-tailed deer and domestic cattle.

Notes:

Largest of the three native deer species (mule, black-tailed, white-tailed).
Antlers grow in forked pairs (unlike white-tailed deer antler which has one main beam with unbranched tines).
White rump patch with narrow, black-tipped tail.
Very large ears (where it gets its name).
Light face and muzzle with dark forehead.
When startled, will run with high, stiff-legged bounce.
May stop to look back when running for cover.

More information on this species

Be sure to check local regulations for hunting or trapping information on this species.