Mule Deer Responses to Deer Guards

Abstract

In this investigation the effectiveness of guards 12, 18, and 24 feet long in preventing mule deer from crossing vehicle openings in fences 8 feet high was evaluated. The guards were constructed of flat mill steel rails 1/2 × 4 × 120 inches, and were tested under both controlled and field conditions. Under controlled tests, 16 of 18 deer successfully crossed the guard. Fifteen deer and one elk crossed guards under field conditions. Deer did not attempt wide jumps over the guards, but rather walked, trotted, or bounded across them. Use of this guard type under the condition tested is not recommended.