Definition & Meaning of "mule deer"

What is a "mule deer"?

The mule deer, also known as the black-tailed deer, is a species of deer that is native to North America. They are known for their medium to large size, with males, called bucks, typically weighing between 150 to 300 pounds and females, called does, weighing between 100 to 200 pounds. Mule deer are characterized by their large ears, which resemble those of a mule or donkey, and their forked antlers that can grow up to several feet in length. Their fur coloration varies, with a grayish-brown coat in the summer and a grayer coat in the winter. Mule deer are known for their agility and speed, being excellent jumpers and runners, which allows them to navigate through their natural habitats of forests, shrublands, and grasslands with ease. They are herbivorous animals, primarily feeding on vegetation such as grasses, leaves, and twigs.