Michigan Deer Population:  An estimated population of about 1.7 million whitetail deer in 2023, up from about 1.5 million in 2015 but down from about 2 million around the year 2000.  The population has been around 1.7 million in recent years with a modest downward trend into 2023.


The state no longer makes a formal population estimate so the 2023 estimate is based on hunting data and previous states estimates.  Estimates reported in the press as from the state are 1.7 million deer in 2020 and 1.75 million deer in 2016 through 2018; up from an estimated 1.5 million deer in 2015 and 1.65 million in 2012   Based on hunting data about 1.5 million deer in 2014 and 1.6 million in 2013.  The herd declined following harsh winters of 2013-2014 with the Upper Peninsula hit hardest.  About 2 million deer around the year 20002024 Deer Forecast


Michigan Deer News