Animal ID Challenge - Moose, Caribou, or Mule Deer

In today's animal identification challenge, I'd like you to identify this member of the deer family (Family Cervidae). The animal pictured here inhabits the boreal forests and tundra of North America, Siberia, and Europe. Depending on habitat and season, this animal's thick coat of fur may vary in color from nearly white to dark brown. Both males and females of this species grow antlers (males grow larger antlers than females).

The fur of this species of deer is a terrific insulator—a much needed adaptation to the cold regions the species inhabits. Its coat consists of two layers: a dense wooly undercoat and a lightweight overcoat. The overcoat consists of long, buoyant, hollow hairs. This two-layered structure of this animal's coat helps to trap heat close to its body.

Your task is to identify which of the following three members of the deer family this species represents: caribou, American moose, or mule deer.

After you have cast your vote in this Animal ID Challenge, be sure to check your answer here.

Photo © Paul Tessier / iStockphoto.