Predators
The predator-prey relationship existed long before Fish and Game started managing game populations. In Idaho, coyotes, mountain lions, wolves, bobcats and bears prey on mule deer. The effect of predators on mule deer varies from year to year. Changes in habitat, weather patterns and other prey species all affect the number of mule deer that are taken by predators in any given year.
Because predators play a vital role in maintaining the equilibrium of eco-systems, managing them can become a delicate balancing act. Too few predators can lead to overpopulation of small herbivores like rabbits, mice and voles, resulting in damage to habitat and agricultural crops.
Fish and Game researchers will focus on the interactions between predators and prey in an effort to better understand how predators affect mule deer populations. We will closely monitor predator populations, and reduce them when and where such reductions are appropriate. In some instances Fish and Game will work with other state and federal agencies to directly reduce predator populations. In other cases the Department may encourage hunters to play an active role in predator reduction by manipulating hunting seasons and regulations for species that prey upon mule deer.