Pronghorn hunting licenses have plummeted in North Dakota following one of the harshest winters in recent memory, similar to a scenario that occurred in the state earlier this century.
An annual survey shows that western North Dakota s mule deer population remains robust, but state wildlife officials are worried about the impacts of extreme drought.
BISMARCK – Mule deer numbers are strong, but concerns about drought persist
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 about 2,600 mule deer in about 300 square miles during this year’s survey.
Big Game Management Supervisor Bruce Stillings said he’s encouraged by the survey numbers. But, Stillings says he’s concerned that mule deer are beginning the summer with poor rangeland conditions due to the extreme drought across the western part of the state, which could negatively affect fawn survival.
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.