Different Types of Deer in the United States

With an estimated population of 35-36 million, it seems that you can find deer in every corner of the United States. When trying to narrow down what type of fence would be the most efficient, you need to know who you are fighting!

Whitetail Deer

Whitetail deer are the most popular deer in the United States, and the most wildly distributed. Most whitetail deer are located east of the Rocky Mountains, with the largest population being in Texas at a population of over 5 million. While whitetail deer can jump up to 10ft, this is typically when the deer is startled. The most effective deer fence for this type of deer would be an 8ft tall fence with no top rail. If they can see the top, they will try to jump it! Since whitetail deer can weigh up to 300lbs, a stronger poly mesh or steel fence should be used to keep them at bay, preferably with a tensioning system in place in larger fields. Our 800 and 1100 poly mesh or a 2-inch steel would be sufficient to keep them out.

Mule Deer

Mule deer are more popular in the Western United States with the highest concentration being in Colorado. Most mule deer can jump 7 to 8ft high, like the whitetail deer the most sufficient fence to keep mule deer out should be 8ft tall without a top rail. Unlike the whitetail deer, mule deer are smaller at an average of 150-200lbs. A tall poly fence like our 700 series poly fences would be sufficient to keep them out.

Caribou (Reindeer)

Caribou are one of the larger species of deer that can be found in the United States, primarily in Alaska with some subspecies being found in northwestern Washington and northeastern Idaho. While female Caribou can reach up to 225lbs, male Caribou range from 350lbs to 400lbs! They are also they only species of deer where both the males and females grow antlers. Caribou are classified as a vulnerable species, which means they are being threatened with extinction. The best way to keep Caribou away is a very strong steel fence, preferably a fixed knot mesh that will give the most strength against their size. This will keep them out of your yard, and safer within their habitat to hopefully assist them in boosting their population in safer conditions away from civilization.

Moose

Moose are the largest species of deer in the United States, with an average height of 6 ½ feet tall, they can reach between 7ft to 8ft in height! Males on average range from 1300lbs to 1600lbs with females of the species ranging from 900lbs to 1000lbs. Moose are extremely strong, and surprisingly fast for their size. They’re able to run up to 35 miles per hour. Considering their size and weight, the average jump height for Moose is 6ft. To keep Moose out of your garden or yard, it is recommended you install a 6 to 8ft tall woven wire fence to compete with their strength. It is also recommended you have the fence overlapping the ground and staked down, as Moose will get on their knees to try and slip under fences.

Elk

Elk is the second largest species of deer, with the highest population located in Colorado. They typically range between 7ft to 8ft in height and between 500 to 730lbs! To keep Elk out, it is recommended you install a fence that is at least 8ft tall to deter them from jumping over, though in areas where there is extreme snow it may be suggested to build a taller fence as packed snow will give Elk an advantage in jumping over fences. While a wooden fence or wire fencing can be installed to keep them at bay, a stronger poly mesh like our 1400 series poly would be just as effective considering the higher strength rating of the mesh.