Comparing the Whitetail Deer vs Mule Deer Species
The Whitetail and Mule deer are two of the most popular taxidermy trophies to display in your cabin. Their antlers, alert expression, and graceful build are iconic and a favorite among deer hunting enthusiasts and taxidermy collectors.
Whether you’re looking to preserve a trophy buck as a life-size mount, wall pedestal, or shoulder mount, the physical differences between these two deer species can influence your choice in display style and taxidermy artistry. The Whitetail deer is commonly crafted into a shoulder mount, but changing things up into a lifesize mount, European mount, or even a deer hide will make a great conversation starter and gorgeous display on your wall.
For hunters and taxidermy collectors alike, understanding the difference between whitetail and mule deer is useful – not only just for identification in the field, but also when choosing the perfect taxidermy mount for your cabin, office, or outdoor shop. Let’s break down the key features, habitat ranges, and taxidermy considerations for the Whitetail and Mule deer species:
Whitetail Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
The Whitetail deer is the most widely distributed deer species in North America. Known for its signature white underside of the tail—which is raised like a flag when alarmed—this deer species thrives in wooded areas, fields, and even suburban landscapes.
The Whitetail deer buck typically weighs between 150–300 pounds and has iconic antlers that curve forward with a single main beam and tines that branch off it.
From a taxidermy standpoint, the Whitetail deer is among the most popular of any North American species you can choose. Their symmetrical antlers, alert expression, and graceful build make them ideal for life-size mounts, shoulder mounts, and wall pedestals.
Due to the widespread hunting of Whitetail deer buck, there are countless styles to choose from, and custom habitats to add to complete the piece.
Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)
Mule deer can be found in the western United States, Canada, and parts of Mexico. As their name implies, this deer species is instantly recognizable by their large, mule-like ears.
Mule deer bucks are slightly larger than their Whitetail cousins, weighing around 200–350 pounds. The buck’s antlers typically fork as they grow, giving them a more branched appearance rather than the single-beam structure of a Whitetail’s antlers.
Mule deer taxidermy life-size mounts, shoulder mounts, and skulls can add a more rugged, Western aesthetic. Their wide antler spreads and high ear placement lend themselves well to shoulder and pedestal mounts. Mule deer are a favorite among collectors seeking a mountainous or desert-themed trophy wall.
Related: Deer Mount Ideas
Key Differences Between the Whitetail and Mule Deer:
| Feature | Whitetail Deer | Mule Deer |
| Scientific Name | Odocoileus virginianus | Odocoileus hemionus |
| Habitat | Eastern/Central US, parts of Canada | Western US, Canada, Mexico |
| Ears | Smaller, more proportionate | Large, mule-like ears |
| Tail | Long and white underneath | Small with a black tip |
| Antlers | Single main beam with tines | Forked, branching antlers |
| Size | 150–300 lbs (bucks) | 200–350 lbs (bucks) |
| Gait | Runs with graceful leaps | “Stotting” – all feet hit the ground at once |
When it comes to deer taxidermy, these physical differences contribute to the final look and overall theme of your mount. A whitetail deer shoulder mount might emphasize sleek lines and clean symmetry and the woods of the Midwest, while a mule deer mount might focus on dramatic spread and a rugged western vibe of Western United States.
Our Deer Mounts
Below are some of our recent Whitetail deer and Mule deer taxidermy mounts, representing the species’ beautiful antler display and graceful look:
Whitetail Deer
Whitetail Deer
Mule Deer
Mule Deer
Shop Deer Taxidermy with All-Taxidermy Today!
Why choose All-Taxidermy for Whitetail Deer and Mule Deer taxidermy? When it comes to deer taxidermy mounts, we take pride in every project we handle, focusing on the details and accuracy of the anatomy.
As you browse our Whitetail and Mule deer taxidermy mounts online, you’ll notice our quality grade badges, which indicate the craftsmanship of each piece. Trophy and Superior grade represents our best Whitetail and Mule buck taxidermy, while the Olympic Big Game Taxidermy logo denotes our museum-ready collection.
Beyond the Whitetail and Mule deer, we also have a variety of other deer species and subspecies in our store: Axis deer, Fallow deer, Red stag, Elk, Moose, Black-tailed deer, Coues deer, Père David’s deer, Sika deer, Caribou/Reindeer, and Roe deer.
Looking for a Whitetail or Mule Deer Trophy? Contact Us!
With years of professional taxidermy experience and a commitment to excellent customer service, All-Taxidermy is here to serve you! We are a family-owned business owned and operated out of Wrightstown, WI, and we proudly serve local and nationwide customers with quality deer taxidermy services.
Let our taxidermy store be your trusted resource for Whitetail and Mule deer taxidermy mount work! Contact our team online or by phone today at 888-983-3886.
