Deer

Biology

Class: Mammalia | Order: Artiodactyla | Family: Cervidae | Genus: Odocoileus

There are two subspecies of deer in California: black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus), and mule deer (O.h. hemionus).

Management

California's deer herds are a valuable resource to both hunters and non-hunters alike. Deer can be seen throughout most of California providing enjoyment for many outdoor enthusiasts. For future generations to experience the benefits that come from having healthy, viable deer populations, updated conservation and management strategies are essential.

In response to this need, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is developing a comprehensive Deer Conservation and Management Plan for California. On September 16, 2025, CDFW staff held a public presentation to provide an update on the plan’s development and to gather feedback on its current contents and direction. The presentation was divided into two parts: an overview of the Plan and it's background, and information on population modeling and abundance estimation. If you would like to submit comments regarding the information presented, please email BigGame@wildlife.ca.gov.

CDFW’s Deer Program is composed of branch and field biologists who coordinate deer-related activities statewide. These efforts are largely supported by hunters through the purchase of hunting licenses and deer tags. Program responsibilities include developing hunting regulations, assessing habitat and populations, compiling harvest data, conducting research, and responding to public inquiries. Staff also collaborate with outside agencies, universities, and non-governmental organizations on joint projects to support deer conservation and management.

Publications

• North American Mule Deer Conservation Plan (PDF)
• Habitat Guidelines for Mule Deer - California Woodland Chaparral Ecoregion (PDF)
• Habitat Guidelines for Mule Deer - Southwest Deserts Ecoregion (PDF)
• A Gardener's Guide to Preventing Deer Damage (PDF)
• A Sportsman's Guide to Improving Deer Habitat in California (PDF)
• An Assessment of Mule and Black-tailed Deer Habitats and Populations in California - 1998 (PDF)
• California Wildlife Conservation Bulletin No. 11: Economic Contribution of Deer, Pronghorn Antelope, and Sage Grouse Hunting to Northeastern California (includes comments from hunters) (PDF)
• Guide to Hunting Deer in California (PDF)

Related Information

• Captive Cervid Industry
• Deer Population Estimates
• Private Lands Management

See also, Deer Hunting