Deer of the Southwest : A Complete Guide to the Natural History, Biology, and Management of Southwestern Mule Deer and White-tailed Deer

Provides information on mule deer and white-tailed deer (including Coues whitetails) in the North American Southwest. This book includes discussions of deer evolution, natural history, physical characteristics, antler growth, movement, home ranges, density, diets, water requirements, mortality rates, behavior, hybridization, and management.

Wildlife biologist Jim Heffelfinger has combed the scientific literature, researched the historical archives, rousted researchers out of retirement, and badgered other southwestern deer biologists for information to create the most comprehensive, accessible, and up-to-date reference yet on mule deer and white-tailed deer (including Coues whitetails) in the North American Southwest. In this book, anyone interested in deer will be treated to authoritative but nontechnical discussions of deer evolution, natural history, human use, physical characteristics, antler growth, movement, home ranges, density, diets, water requirements, mortality rates, rutting behavior, hybridization, and management. Special attention is given to the questions that continually arise regarding deer: Can deer see color? What do they eat? Can they hear deer-repelling car whistles? How large is an average home range? When is the rut? What causes deformed antlers? Are ""antlered does"" really does? Do predators affect deer populations? Do mule deer and white-tailed deer interbreed? ""Deer of the Southwest"" will be the definitive popular guide to these highly valued and critically important animals in this region.