California has emerged as a champion for mule deer, marking a significant victory for these majestic creatures.
California is home to one of the largest populations of mountain lions in the United States, with an estimated 4,000 to 6,000 in the wild. These majestic creatures roam across the western Americas, from southern Alaska to the southernmost part of Chile. Known for their diversity of wildlife, California offers a habitat that supports a thriving population of mountain lions.
The mule deer, a sought-after population in California, is home to both humans and lions. Weighing between 100 and 220 pounds, they are larger than the well-known white-tailed deer. Mountain lions, on average, consume around 48 “deer-sized animals” annually. In California alone, this amounts to approximately 192,000 to 288,000 deer consumed by mountain lions each year. While the lions typically prevail in these battles, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) surprised us with vintage footage showcasing a mule deer not only escaping the attack of a fully grown lion but also giving it a fight. It’s truly remarkable. Although the lion needs to eat as well, there’s something about rooting for the underdog that seems to resonate with people.
