Mule deer are a species of deer native to North America, primarily found in the western United States and parts of Canada and Mexico. They are named for their large, mule-like ears, which help them detect sounds in their environment. These deer are known for their distinctive forked antlers, which are shed and regrown annually by males. Mule deer typically inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and deserts. They are herbivores, feeding on a diet of leaves, shrubs, and grasses. During the winter months, they may migrate to lower elevations in search of food. Their population is managed through hunting regulations to maintain a healthy ecosystem.