We studied the diets of desert mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus crooki M
earns) at 3 sites in Arizona and collated this information with that o
f previous diet studies of desert mule deer across their range in the
United States, We documented 96 browse, 69 forb, 14 succulent, and 6 g
rass species that each constituted greater than or equal to 1% of the
diet during greater than or equal to 1 season, The occurrence of indiv
idual plant species varied spatially and temporally, Changes in nutrie
nt levels and climatic influence on relative availability and phenolog
y of plant species likely influenced diet, Desert mule deer rely heavi
ly on browse and forbes, which make up the majority of their diet (> 9
0%), Grasses and succulents were generally < 5% of the diet, Rangeland
managers should strive to keep desert rangelands productive with a di
versity of forage so animals have opportunities to exercise free choic
e of diet.