Mule Deer
Since the early 1920s, deer populations in the US have been growing at a steady pace making them the most prolific of all big game animals. Montana is blessed with hosting multiple species of deer including the two most popular, the mule and whitetail varieties. more info
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Living in the higher altitudes and more timber-oriented environments, the mule deer is the larger of the two species outpacing their whitetail cousins in weight by about 20-40 lbs on average. You will spot these animals on hillsides around Big Sky throughout the year. The whitetail is more abundant as you near more agriculture-oriented topography such as the wheat and alfalfa fields of the Gallatin Valley, just 25 minutes north of Big Sky.
The males of both species, called "bucks" can develop impressive antler racks which are prized by hunters the world over who travel to the region to hunt these regal animals. Many state and national record animals have been taken in the mountain peaks surrounding Big Sky, including the Taylor Fork drainage, the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, the Madison River Valley (just West of Big Sky) and national forest surrounding Yellowstone National Park just 30 minutes to the south.
Like with other animals, the best time to view and photograph deer are in the 2 hours around dawn and the last hour before sunset. Besides having excellent smell, deer – along with elk – have the best hearing of any big game species. Thus, to leverage your chances of getting exceptional photos, use natural cover like tree trunks and foliage, and when at all possible, put the wind in your face so your scent or sound don't give you away well before you get within range for that prize winning shot!
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