Benson Murals

In addition to movements related to available shelter and food, the breeding cycle is important in understanding deer behavior.

 

The "rut" or mating season usually begins in the fall. The gestation period is about 190-200 days, with fawns born in the spring, staying with their mothers during the summer and being weaned in the fall after about 75 days. Mule deer females (does) usually give birth to two fawns, although if it is their first time having a fawn, they often have just one.

 

A buck or stag's antlers fall off during the winter, to grow again in preparation for the next season's rut.