Recent deer surveys in northeast Montana indicate lower overall numbers compared to the last few years

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists completed 2022 post-season winter and spring aerial surveys of deer populations across Region 6 in northeastern Montana. The surveys indicate variable numbers for mule deer across the region and below average populations of white-tailed deer.

Mule Deer

“A significant drought in 2021 had impacts on the mule deer numbers across the region, most notably in the central and western portion of the region,” said Ryan Williamson, Outlook-area biologist.

“The 2021 drought likely led to lower fawn survival and recruitment, as indicated by the lower fawn ratios w...