Odocoileus

Odocoileus is a genus of deer in the family Cervidae, native to the Americas. It contains two living species, the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and the mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). Across these species are numerous subspecies that vary regionally, with range extending from southern Canada through the United States and into Mexico and parts of Central America in some populations.

Mule deer are distinguished by large ears and a tail not raised as conspicuously as the white-tailed deer; white-tailed deer have a characteristic white underside of the tail which they raise as a tail-flag when alarmed. Both species produce antlers that are shed annually; males typically carry antlers, while females rarely do. Antler shape and size vary by species and subspecies.

Habitat and behavior: White-tailed deer occupy a broad range of habitats, including forests, farmland edges, and wetlands; mule deer favor more arid, open, and mountainous landscapes in western North America. Both species are mostly herbivorous, feeding on grasses, forbs, shrubs, and browse; diet shifts seasonally. Social structure varies: females often form stable matrilineal groups; males are more solitary except during the breeding season. Breeding occurs in fall; fawns are born in spring or early summer.

Conservation and human interactions: Populations are widespread and generally stable, though some regional subspecies are threatened by habitat loss, fragmentation, and overhunting. The Key deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium) of the Florida Keys is endangered. In many regions, deer management and hunting regulate populations to reduce crop damage and vehicle collisions.