Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)

(last update 98 May)

Mule deer get their name from their large, mule-like ears. Like white-tailed deer, mule deer are greyish brown in winter and reddish-brown in summer. They are slightly larger than white-tailed deer; bucks average about 100 kg (220 lb.), and does about 70 kg (155 lb.).

Mule deer can be identified by their tails and antlers. The thin, brown tail has a black tip and is surrounded by a white rump patch. The beam of each antler divides into two equal tines, and in older bucks these may divide again.

Mule deer have the same acute senses of smell, sight and hearing as have white-tailed deer. However, unlike the wary white-tail, mule deer are often inquisitive. When alarmed and running, they often stop for a last look before bounding out of sight. They exhibit a distinct, stiff-legged, bouncing gait when running.

In Alberta, the rut usually occurs in November. One or two spotted fawns are born to each doe the following spring.

Mule deer are found throughout the province, but are most plentiful in southern and western Alberta. They are more common in mountainous areas than white-tailed deer. Here, they inhabit mixed-wood forests, hilly areas and edges of coniferous forests. They browse aspen, willow and other shrubs.

The Fish and Wildlife Division estimates the provincial population (in Sept.) to be about 133,000 animals. This estimate is based on population counts in selected areas and hunter harvest information.