Species · GBIF taxon 2440974
Odocoileus hemionus
odocoileus hemionusAlso known as Black-tailed Deer, Columbian Blacktail, Rocky Mountain Mule Deer
Mule deer navigate the rugged landscapes of western North America with a distinctive bounding leap called stotting, where all four hooves hit the ground simultaneously. Their oversized, mule-like ears constantly pivot to detect the faintest sounds of approaching predators, while their bifurcated antlers fork repeatedly as they grow. During the autumn rut, mature bucks clash in dramatic battles of strength to win breeding rights with local female herds.
HerbivoreMammalNorth American
- diet
- Herbivorous browser, feeding on woody shrubs, twigs, forbs, grasses, and acorns.
- family
- Cervidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, vehicle collisions, chronic wasting disease, and predation.
- life Span
- 10 to 15 years in the wild.
LC
Can charge or kick if cornered or during the autumn rut; maintain a safe distance.
Bucks during the autumn rut and protective mothers with fawns can charge, kick, or gore with antlers if they feel threatened.
Never approach closely, especially during autumn or spring; back away slowly if a deer stares or stomps its hooves.- Keep Distance: Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe their natural behaviors without causing stress.
- Watch the Ears: If their large ears lock onto you and their body tenses, you are too close.
- Drive Cautiously: Scan roadsides at dawn and dusk when they are most active near highways.