Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Mule Deer Study

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is in the midst of a five-year study on mule deer populations in the state, launched in late 2022. This extensive research delves into six crucial aspects of mule deer management: abundance, composition, data management, survival, herd health, and harvest management.

To gather data, 1,112 mule deer from five focal herds across the state were fitted with collars from late 2022 through early 2023. These herds represent diverse regions and characteristics, offering insights into the factors affecting their performance.

Herds Faced Harsh Winter

The winter of 2022-23 was harsh, resulting in significant losses for mule deer, particularly in central and western Wyoming. For example, in the Wyoming Range herd, all 100 collared juveniles succumbed to the challenging winter conditions.

Despite these challenges, some focal herds fared relatively well. The North Bighorn herd, for instance, saw high survival rates among collared does and juveniles.

Study is a Collaboration

This project is a collaborative effort involving the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, the University of Wyoming, and the Wyoming State Veterinary Lab. Real-time data on survival, mortality, and movements are being monitored, providing valuable insights for management decisions.

Although the study is in its initial stages, it holds promise for better-informed management decisions and a deeper understanding of Wyoming’s mule deer populations.