Overall Trend: Most black-tailed deer populations across their range are stable or increasing.
Notable Observations:
Western Oregon and parts of California have shown improved population indicators.
Washington reports largely stable trends, although some localized declines exist.
British Columbia reports regional variability, with some populations stable and others decreasing.
The species continues to face challenges from habitat loss, urbanization, and predation.
Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus hemionus and subspecies)
Overall Trend: Mule deer populations have seen a long-term decline in many areas but are currently stable or increasing in some regions.
Notable Observations:
Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah report stable to slightly increasing numbers due to favorable weather and habitat management.
Nevada and New Mexico populations remain lower than historical levels, primarily due to drought, habitat fragmentation, and disease.
Northern states and provinces such as Montana and Alberta are seeing generally stable trends.
These trends reflect the impact of regional weather patterns, habitat quality, disease, and predation, with a continued focus on habitat management as a key factor in population health.
State Breakdown:
Mule Deer Populations by State (2024)
State
Population Estimate
Trend
Notes
Arizona
85,000 – 100,000
Decreasing
Drought and habitat loss issues.
California
370,000 – 400,000
Stable to Decreasing
Declines in some areas like the Sierra Nevada.
Colorado
418,000
Increasing
Following population recovery efforts.
Idaho
280,000 – 300,000
Decreasing
Winter mortality impact.
Montana
175,000 – 200,000
Increasing
Improved recruitment.
Nevada
80,000 – 90,000
Stable
Population recovering from drought.
New Mexico
80,000 – 90,000
Stable
Populations vary by region.
North Dakota
5,000 – 10,000
Stable
Limited range in badlands.
Oregon
180,000 – 200,000
Decreasing
Habitat loss and disease issues.
South Dakota
65,000 – 70,000
Stable
Stable with localized variability.
Texas
25,000 – 30,000
Stable
Concentrated in western regions.
Utah
330,000 – 340,000
Stable
Above long-term average.
Washington
150,000 – 170,000
Decreasing
Harsh winters and disease.
Wyoming
400,000 – 420,000
Stable to Increasing
High-quality habitat recovery.
Black-Tailed Deer Populations by State (2024)
State
Population Estimate
Trend
Notes
California
300,000 – 350,000
Stable
Mostly along coast and northern forest regions.
Oregon
225,000 – 250,000
Decreasing
Affected by habitat fragmentation.
Washington
300,000 – 325,000
Decreasing
Disease and development pressures.
Alaska
80,000 – 100,000
Variable
e Highly variable due to winter severity and predation.
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