In general, white-tailed doe deer become sexually mature at around 18 months of age. However, they may not necessarily breed their first year of eligibility. Typically, only about half of yearling doe deer breed. After reaching sexual maturity, doe deer can potentially breed once per year for the rest of their lives. However, the probability of conception and successful pregnancy decreases with age, and it is not uncommon for older doe deer to skip a year or more between breeding events.
Several factors can affect a doe deer's decision to breed, including:
* Body condition: Doe deer need to be in good physical condition to carry a pregnancy and raise a fawn. If they are malnourished or underweight, they may not breed or may experience low conception rates.
* Social structure: The social structure of the deer herd can also influence breeding behavior. In areas with a high density of deer, doe deer may be more likely to breed if there are a sufficient number of available mates.
* Predation risk: Doe deer are preyed upon by a variety of predators, including coyotes, wolves, bears, and mountain lions. If predation risk is high, doe deer may be less likely to breed or may give birth to fewer fawns.
* Environmental conditions: Environmental conditions such as weather and food availability can also affect breeding behavior. In harsh winters or during periods of drought, doe deer may be less likely to breed or may experience lower conception rates.