MULE DEER

Mule Deer are common residents on the Navajo Nation. They can be found mostly within the forested areas especially within the Chuska Mountain, Defiance Plateau, and the canyons that connect to these mountain features. Often one can find small groups within the deserts and butte areas as well. Mule Deer are herbivores, feeding mostly on herbs in summer and evergreens in the winter. They are known to migrate from high-elevations to low in the fall when the snow starts falling.

Mule Deer are called "Bįįh tsoh" in the Navajo language, and they are greatly honored by the Navajo People. It is said that one should pray before eating deer meat. Also deer skin (hide) is very valuable to have, especially those that are unblemished by an arrow.