Mule deer numbers strong, but concerns about drought persist
May 17, 2021
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An annual spring survey shows that the mule deer population is thriving in western North Dakota, but state wildlife officials are concerned about how the animals will do with prolonged drought conditions.
Game and Fish Department biologists counted 2,671 mule deer in about 306 square miles during this year’s survey. Overall mule deer density in the Badlands is about the same as last year, the Bismarck Tribune reported.
Hunting of mule deer females was banned in North Dakota for four consecutive seasons beginning in 2012 after a string of tough winters led to a record low number of fawns. Restrictions have been lifted in phases since 2016.