As part of our new Audublog we will be profiling a number of the wildlife that we see around the golf course. I thought it would be best to start with what is probably the most common animal seen around the property, the Mule Deer.
The Mule Deer, pictured above with twin fawns, are usually seen on a daily basis at D'Arcy Ranch. This animal is commonly found all over Alberta in open forests and wooded river valleys. Its coat is tan in the summer and gray in the winter. Key field marks include large ears and a black-tipped tail. Mule deer feed mostly on shrubs, twigs, and grasses. Males shed horns between January and March. They are essentialy a solitary species, but often form herds during mating season and over the winter. They are not a very aggresive species, but like any wild animal should be given their space when you come into contact with one, especially if they have young.
Michael Roberts
Assistant Superintendent
Credits: Kavanagh; Nature Alberta - An Illistrated Guide to Common Plants and Animals
