Which species occupies remote, heavily forested, or marshy environments compared to O. virginianus?

Moose (Alces alces)

When comparing the habitat preferences within the Cervidae family, the Moose (*Alces alces*) occupies ecological niches that are generally more specialized and less ubiquitous than the generalist edge habitat favored by the Whitetail Deer. Moose typically prefer remote, heavily forested tracts or marshy environments, requiring greater space and specific forage types not always available in disturbed landscapes. In contrast, the Mule Deer (*Odocoileus hemionus*) is closer taxonomically but often shows preferences for different physical features than the Whitetail, while Elk (*Cervus canadensis*) often prefer more open environments. The Whitetail's ability to utilize the widespread 'edge' territory is what allows it to outnumber these other relatives in many regions.