Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Mule deer

Scientific name: Odocoileus hemionus


Mule deer

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: CERVIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 50 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.11-31.12

Gestation: 190–200 jours

Births: 01.05-30.06


Habitat:
Open forests, grasslands, mountains

Description:
The mule deer is a North American deer species known for its large, mule-like ears. Its coat ranges from gray to brown, becoming lighter in winter. Males have branched antlers that they shed annually. Adapted to rugged terrain, they prefer mountainous and open forest habitats. Primarily herbivorous, they feed on leaves, grasses, and young shoots. Mule deer are social animals, often forming small groups, especially in winter. They are generally wary, making them challenging to approach.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the mule deer, it's advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. The best times to observe them are early morning or late afternoon when they are more active. Be patient and quiet to avoid scaring them away. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust ISO settings according to available light. Take advantage of natural landscapes to add depth to your photos.

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