Black-tailed deer thrive in ecotone habitat, which is the forest edge. This is because the dark forest lacks the brush and grasses the deer feed on, while completely open meadows lack the hiding spots and shelter. These deer commonly browse western poison oak, despite the allergen content. Black-tailed deer are most active at dawn and dusk, and are commonly involved in car accidents.
Fun Fact Black-tailed deer drop their antlers between January and March. Dropped antlers are chewed by mice, rats, squirrels, hares, and porcupines, helping them to sharpen their front teeth while supplying them with calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals. Bucks regrow their antlers beginning in April through to August.