Mule deer are one of Alberta’s most recognizable big game animals, but they are also one of the least studied.

In this episode of the Harvest Your Own Podcast, Brad Fenson sits down with wildlife biologist Paul Jones to discuss the Alberta Mule Deer Collaring Project, a new research effort tracking mule deer movement, survival, and habitat use across southern Alberta.

Researchers are using GPS collars deployed by helicopter capture teams to better understand how mule deer move across the landscape, how winter conditions affect survival, and how populations respond to predators, disease, and habitat changes.

The project brings together several conservation partners, including Alberta Conservation Association, Alberta Professional Outfitters Society, Grand Slam Club/Ovis Canada, and the Government of Alberta, with research partners Wilderness Solutions Inc. and EcoBorealis Consulting Inc.

The data collected will help biologists improve how mule deer populations are monitored and managed across Alberta.

Brad and Paul discuss:

• How mule deer are captured and collared
• What researchers are learning about migration and movement
• How winter severity affects mule deer survival
• New technologies being explored for wildlife monitoring
• How landowners and conservation partners are helping support the research

Learn more about the project:
https://albertacollaringproject.com/

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