Question: What is the single greatest factor that has caused declines in mule deer?
Answer: Loss and degradation of habitat.
Sadly, given the permanent loss of winter and summer mule deer range that has occurred since the middle of the last century, it is not likely we will ever return to mule deer population numbers that existed at that time.
It is, however, possible to increase and improve habitat, take a firm stand on predatory control, educate future conservationists, and focus on other factors that have contributed to the loss and decline of mule deer numbers.
These efforts require tremendous coordination that crosses social and political boundaries.
The Mule Deer Foundation is going to any lengths to do just that.
MDF works with state and federal wildlife agencies, conservation groups, businesses and individuals to further the MDF mission. We’re also on the front lines in Washington, D.C., supporting or challenging issues that affect mule deer populations.
MDF also believes that promoting the hunting heritage is a key ingredient to furthering our conservation objectives. Education programs, such as our M.U.L.E.Y. Youth Camps, are aimed at educating the public on hunting, wildlife management and overall respect and enjoyment of our natural resources.
Today’s conservation efforts require leadership, cooperation and dedication. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
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Contact us with your questions, comments and ideas!
Want to PARTNER with MDF and really make a difference? Consider becoming a Conservation Partner. This special partnership is designed to provide a way for donors to put money directly on the ground for mule deer, black-tailed deer and their habitat.
WESTERN ASSOCIATION OF FISH & WILDLIFE AGENCIES’ (WAFWA) MULE DEER WORKING GROUP PUBLICATIONS
Want more information about Mule Deer Conservation? There are a number of publications available from the Western Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies’ (WAFWA) Mule Deer Working Group:
- Mule Deer Habitat Guidelines for Seven Ecoregions Throughout North America
- Mule Deer Conservation: Issues and Challenges
- North American Mule Deer Conservation Plan
An interagency Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in support of this conservation plan has been signed by major land management agencies and WAFWA. Click here for a PDF copy of the MOU. - Mule Deer: Changing Landscapes, Changing Perspectives
Available in downloadable PDF version, interactive on-line website, or hardcopies of this document are also available from your local State or Provincial wildlife management agency. - Predator Relationships with Black-tailed and Mule Deer in North America
- Manuscript titled: A Case for Standardized Ungulate Surveys and Data Management in the Western United States, which calls for an improvement in how consistently survey data are collected and stored.
- Deer/Elk Workshop Proceedings (PDF)
- Interactive Map of North American black-tailed and mule deer habitat
(This link takes you to the Remote Sensing/GIS Lab website at Utah State University were you can download GIS files and a map.)
Visit the WAFWA Mule Deer Working Group Web site for more information.