The Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) is a documented part of Oklahoma’s wildlife, though its presence is highly limited compared to the state’s dominant White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) population. While White-tailed Deer are widely distributed across all 77 counties, the Mule Deer is confined to a specific geographic area. Their population is small and localized, making them the less common of Oklahoma’s two native deer species.
Confirmation and Current Range in Oklahoma
The distribution of Mule Deer is restricted almost entirely to the far western edge of Oklahoma, reflecting the easternmost boundary of their North American range. Their presence is concentrated within the three Panhandle counties (Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver) and extends into northwestern counties like Harper, Ellis, Woods, and Woodward.
The habitat required differs significantly from the dense woodlands preferred by White-tailed Deer. Mule Deer occupy open native mixed-grass and shortgrass prairie environments, often featuring canyons, rocky mesas, and extensive tracts of shinnery oak for cover and browse.
These localized populations are extensions of larger, more stable herds in neighboring states to the west and north. Animals frequently move across state lines from Colorado, New Mexico, and Kansas, maintaining the low-density population.
Identifying Mule Deer vs. White-tailed Deer
Ear Size and Shape
Distinguishing a Mule Deer from a White-tailed Deer is possible by observing several physical characteristics, especially since the two species overlap in the western part of the state. The most obvious difference is the size of the ears, which give the Mule Deer its common name. Mule Deer have notably large, prominent ears, while White-tailed Deer possess smaller, more pointed ears.
Tail Structure
The tail structure also provides a reliable distinction. The Mule Deer features a rope-like, cream-colored tail with a distinct black tip, resting over a large, white rump patch. In contrast, the White-tailed Deer’s tail is brown on top, but the underside is covered in broad, white hair, which is raised or “flagged” when the animal is alarmed.
Antler Configuration
Antler configuration for mature bucks is another identifier. Mule Deer antlers exhibit a bifurcated structure, meaning the tines fork or split into two as they grow. White-tailed Deer antlers typically grow with all tines rising individually from a single main beam.
Movement
The way the animals move can also differentiate them, especially when startled. When fleeing, the Mule Deer employs a unique, stiff-legged, bounding leap known as stotting, where all four feet push off and land nearly simultaneously. White-tailed Deer run or gallop with a more fluid stride.
Population Status and Historical Context
The current Mule Deer population in Oklahoma is estimated to fluctuate around 3,000 individuals. Population density is consistently low, often less than one individual per square kilometer even in their range. This limited number is due to the scarcity of the specific habitat they prefer, which is confined to the arid western prairies.
The historical presence of Mule Deer was impacted by human activity in the early 20th century. Unregulated hunting and extensive changes in land use following settlement caused a severe decline in deer numbers statewide. By 1916, the total deer population was extremely low, leading to a decades-long closure of the hunting season.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) manages the population closely. Management focuses on monitoring the animals through ongoing research, including the use of GPS collars to track movement and determine factors that limit growth. This research helps wildlife professionals understand habitat use and how best to ensure herd stability.