Montana Mule Deer, Pictures

Mule deer are perfectly suited for the wilderness areas around West Yellowstone and are a popular sight for visitors, with their large ears and small black-tipped white tails.

Overview

Mule deer got their names (it’s said) from Lewis and Clark, so-named for their big mule-like ears. These deer live in every western state and in western Canada, are very adaptable and like the lowland deserts or the alpine tundra.

Interesting Facts

Studies have shown that mule deer eat more than 600 different species of plants. In spring and summer, they will feed on grasses, and in the winter, strip low tree and shrub branches.

When the male mule deer grows antlers, they begin with a velvet-like covering. When the velvet covering dries, the bucks rub their antlers on small trees to remove it.

Bucks can weigh as much as 250 pounds or even more.

The mule deer’s breeding season runs from October to early February. This is called “the rut” and the bucks fight for dominance. One buck usually breeds several does.

Many fawns are born between late May and late June. Close to 65 percent of the births are twins.

Best Place for Viewing Mule Deer

Mule deer favor rocky slopes with brush, fields of wildflowers and alfalfa and open grasslands. You can see them many places around Yellowstone, but especially around the Madison River and Mammoth or the Lamar Valley area. Outside of the park, find mule deer around Driggs, Idaho and in the sagebrush country of Wyoming.

Respecting Wildlife

Respect wildlife by following these simple tips:

• Always keep a safe distance from wildlife. They can be unpredictable.
• Don’t disturb or harass the animals. View them with binoculars whenever possible so you don’t intrude on their space.
• Stay on the trails.
• Dispose of all trash and food before you leave.
• Never feed wildlife inside or outside the park. Don’t let them come to depend on humans for food.