WYOMING — According to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), tracked mule deer fawns in the Jackson/Pinedale regions are currently showing greater than 50 percent mortality in the Wyoming Range herd.
Juvenile mortality typically averages about 25 percent in these herds. The GPS-collared adults are currently showing average mortality in the Sublette and Wyoming Range deer herds.
According to Teton Conservation District, “the lack of winter range is recognized as one of the most significant limiting factors to mule deer populations.”
WGFD reported that almost all of the mortalities had gelatinous bone marrow, which signifies malnutrition.
This winter’s severe weather has impacted Wyoming wildlife and pushed a number of species into developed areas. WGFD encourages the public to give animals space, leave gates open when possible to allow for animal movement and drive slower on roadways to accommodate wildlife.
