St. Maries Wildlife

Big game species commonly occurring on the WMA include white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, black bear and mountain lion. White-tailed deer are abundant and are the most sought-after game species.

Wintering big game populations are estimated at 150-200 deer and 25-30 elk. South and west facing slopes below 4,000 feet provide the majority of the winter range during a normal winter. The foraging areas created by small clearcuts have generated excellent shrub response and habitat seems to be able to accommodate larger herd sizes.

Upland game species include ruffed grouse and blue grouse. Ruffed grouse are common and frequently seen throughout the WMA. Most grouse hunting occurs in September, however deer and elk hunters often take them incidentally in October and November.

Whitetail