Alberta Mule Deer
Collaring Project

The Path Forward

The Path Forward, released April 22, 2026, by Wild Origins Canada, highlights a hunter-led, science-based effort to better understand Alberta's mule deer. In partnership with the Alberta Professional Outfitters Society (APOS), the 8-minute film takes viewers into the real challenges facing this iconic species, including habitat change, disease, and predation; and shows how on-the-ground research is helping shape practical conservation solutions.

This is a rare behind-the-scenes look at the Alberta Mule Deer Collaring Project—one of the largest privately led mule deer research efforts in the world. From early morning helicopter work to highly coordinated ground capture teams, the film shows how deer are safely located, handled with care, fitted with GPS collars, and released back into the landscape within minutes. Each step is done with precision and respect for the animal.

The importance of this work cannot be overstated. Mule deer are found throughout much of Alberta and are a key indicator of overall ecosystem health. By tracking their movements through collar data, biologists can better understand migration routes, seasonal habitat needs, survival pressures, and how changing landscapes are affecting populations. That knowledge is essential for making informed decisions that support healthy deer herds and resilient landscapes for the long term.