Arizona's WildLife

Mule deer are a common and adaptable species found throughout Arizona’s forests, woodlands, and open meadows. Named for their large, mule-like ears, they are easily recognized by their gray-brown coats and white rump patches. Mule deer are most often seen along forest edges, meadows, and roadsides, where they browse on shrubs, grasses, and seasonal vegetation. They are crepuscular, most active at dawn and dusk, and travel in small groups or family units. Bucks grow branching antlers that are shed and regrown annually, while does focus on raising fawns in sheltered areas. As a widespread and visible species, mule deer are an integral part of Arizona’s ecosystems, providing prey for predators and helping shape vegetation patterns through their browsing habits.