Abstract: The purpose of this document is to provide a general overview of the current black-tailed and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) population status and general abundance trends throughout their range in North America. The Mule Deer Working Group Technical Committee (MDWG) consists of representatives from the 24 state, territorial, and provincial agencies that comprise the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA). The purpose of the MDWG is to provide a collaborative approach to finding solutions to improve black-tailed and mule deer conservation and management. One of the most common types of information requested of the MDWG is regarding the general population status and trajectory of black-tailed and mule deer populations. This species occupies a broad geographic range and diverse habitats from central Mexico to Canada’s Yukon Territory and from the Pacific Coast to the eastern Great Plains. Their populations can fluctuate dramatically through time in response to changes in habitat, environmental conditions, disease, predators, and harvest management. Because of their popularity and wide distribution, mule deer are one of the most socially and economically important animals in western North America. The public expects wildlife agencies to maintain abundant populations of this charismatic species, with expectations often exceeding what their habitat will sustain.

Attached Files

• Version:
• File Type: pdf
• Size: 3 MB