Yearling Mule Deer on a grassy slope – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/2000, ISO 500, -0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
This March will more than likely go down on record as the warmest March ever for my area of northern Utah and currently we are only 0.11 of an inch away from it being the wettest March ever too. The warm temps and wet weather have produced lush, green spring grasses and forbs and the Mule Deer are now able to find fresh food without snow cover in many of the areas that I travel to looking for birds to photograph.
I am primarily a bird photographer but when I have the opportunity to photograph animals, insects, wildflowers or scenery I jump at the chance, so last week when I saw a small herd of Mule Deer moving up slope and feeding close to the road I absolutely had to take a few photos.
The herd consisted of a few does and some yearling Mule Deer, the yearlings are still slightly smaller than the adult does and they look a little fluffier to my eyes too in their winter coats.
Mule Deer doe feeding on spring grasses – Nikon D500, f10, 1/1000, ISO 500, -0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Mule Deer tend to move down into the valleys in the winter and begin moving up into the mountains in the spring. I haven’t seen any bucks in velvet yet but I suspect it won’t be long before I do as their yearly antler growth begins.
It was nice to be able to photograph these Mule Deer on a clear, sunny morning. Spring has sprung and after a long dreary winter I am grateful that it has.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Mule Deer photos plus facts and information about this species.
Beautiful images, Mia.
Those big ears do resemble those of a mule. I also appreciate your images that include all of nature.
Echoing Patty. Again.
I’m so glad that you photograph other natural subjects, too. Your landscapes, skyscspes, flower, insect, mammals, etc. are as beautiful and interesting as your birds…I love them all! Thank you!!!