Beyond the Capture

Joey hosts this episode exploring the Wyoming Range Mule Deer Research Project, led by Dr. Kevin Monteith and his team at the University of Wyoming. The conversation focuses on a newer part of the long-running research effort: capturing and collaring mule deer fawns to better understand fawn survival, doe-fawn relationships, migration, and the challenges young deer face during their first year. Annette, Stevie, and Lindsay share their firsthand experiences joining Kevin's research team in the field. Annette earned the opportunity through a Muley Fanatic Foundation Glammed Up auction, giving the group a rare chance to see what goes into hands-on mule deer research. They describe hiking through Wyoming habitat while using telemetry equipment to locate fawns and following strict, permitted protocols designed to keep the animals safe. That includes minimizing handling time, collecting samples efficiently, and using nearby vegetation to help reduce human scent before returning the fawns to their hiding places. The group recalls several memorable moments, including locating a set of collared triplets, re-collaring fawns, learning that one animal was presumed dead, and assisting with the capture and sampling of a newborn fawn. Beyond the science, the experience gave them an even greater appreciation for mule deer does, the challenges of raising fawns, and the importance of quality habitat and migration routes.  It's a behind-the-scenes look at mule deer research and the people working to better understand what these animals need to survive and thrive across Wyoming's landscapes.