Mule Deer Migration
Mule deer migrate seasonally, moving between higher and lower elevations. They migrate to take advantage of rich vegetation, where they follow the growth of young, nutritional plants and escape the dry summer heat. These deer travel 480 miles round trip.
According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, “Across Oregon, more than 60% of mule deer migrate. Along the east slope of the Cascade mountains, where topography and seasonal climate changes are more extreme, upwards of 98% of mule deer are migratory. Migration confers numerous benefits, including better survival. Here in Oregon, migratory deer have been found to have a 6% higher annual survival rate compared to residents.” Different herds migrate in varying ways (DFW).