Quick Answer
Tennessee's deer population is unique due to its mix of Eastern and Western white-tailed deer subspecies, resulting in a diverse and adaptable population. This genetic makeup allows deer to thrive in various habitats, from the Cumberland Plateau to the Mississippi River Valley. The state's deer population is also notable for its relatively high density.
Tennessee’s Deer Subspecies and Habitat Adaptation
Tennessee is home to a mix of Eastern (Odocoileus virginianus) and Western (Odocoileus virginianus macrourus) white-tailed deer subspecies. This unique genetic combination is thought to have originated from the interaction of deer from the Ozark Mountains and the Cumberland Plateau. As a result, Tennessee deer are well adapted to the state’s varied habitats, including deciduous forests, mixed pine-hardwood forests, and agricultural areas.
Deer Density and Management Strategies
Tennessee’s deer population is characterized by a relatively high density, with an estimated 19 deer per square mile in some areas. To manage this population sustainably, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) employs techniques such as harvest reporting, deer-vehicle collision data analysis, and deer population surveys. Hunters can also contribute to population management by participating in the TWRA’s Hunter Harvest Program, which provides critical data for deer population management and research.
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