Mule deer can be found throughout Yellowstone in the summer. There are about 1,850–1,900 mule deer in the park. In the winter, many migrate outside of the park to lower elevations leaving less than 400 in the park. In the winter the remaining mule deer can be found near the North Entrance area.
Mule deer in Yellowstone on East Entrance Road
The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is home to both mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). The mule deer, also called blacktail deer, is an exclusively western species commonly seen in open-brush country throughout the western states. Widely dispersed throughout Yellowstone National Park during the summer, mule deer migrate seasonally. Most of the population winters outside of the park. Although the white-tailed deer is the most common deer species throughout North America, it has never been abundant in Yellowstone. This may be due to habitat and elevation constraints on the northern range or competition from other ungulates that are better suited to park habitat. The two species are differentiated by their antler shape and tail size and appearance.
Mule deer males (bucks) weigh 150–250 pounds. Females (does) weigh 100–175 pounds. Adults measure approximately 3½ feet at the shoulder. Mule deer mating season (rut) occurs in November and December. The females give birth to their babies (fawns) in late May to early August.
Mule deer mother with fawn
In the summer their coat is a reddish color. In the winter, the coat becomes more of a gray-brown color. They have a white rump patch with a black-tipped tail and a brown patch on forehead. Mule deer are identifiable by their large ears. Males grow antlers from April or May until August or September. They shed them in late winter and spring. Mule deer live in brushy areas, coniferous forests, and grasslands. They have a bounding gait, all four feet leave the ground which enables them to move more quickly through shrubs and rock fields. They eat shrubs, forbs, grasses and conifers. Predators include wolves, coyotes, cougars, and bears.
Male mule deer in sage near Mammoth
I have seen mule deer throughout the entire park and do not have specific locations to recommend. The areas I have seen them most often include the area of Mammoth, the road between Mammoth & Tower, and along the East and Northeast Entrance Roads. I have not seen a white tailed deer in Yellowstone. Mule deer can also be seen throughout the west.
Female mule deer in Yellowstone
