Discovering a fawn, or baby deer, alone in the woods or a field can be a surprising and sometimes concerning experience. These spotted creatures are undeniably cute, often seen trailing closely behind their mothers or frolicking with boundless energy. However, it’s essential to understand their behavior and needs before intervening. So, What Is A Fawn and what should you do if you encounter one?
Alt text: A white-tailed deer fawn with its distinctive spots rests camouflaged in the grass.
Fawn Behavior and Development
White-tailed deer typically mate in the fall, between October and December. The male deer, known as a buck, doesn’t participate in raising the fawns. After a doe (female deer) gives birth to one or two fawns, she nurses them and then leads them to a secluded area within her familiar territory. Twin fawns might even be separated by as much as 200 feet.
The doe will then leave her fawn(s) alone for extended periods, returning periodically to nurse them and move them to new hiding spots. This pattern continues for about three weeks. By this time, the fawns are developed enough to keep pace with their mother and escape from potential dangers. This early independence is a crucial part of their survival strategy.
What To Do If You Find a Fawn
In most situations, the best course of action is to leave the area immediately. This prevents any further disturbance to the fawn. On rare occasions, a fawn might approach people or pets. If this happens, gently encourage the fawn to lie down by pressing on its shoulders, imitating the doe’s behavior to keep it still. This will allow you and your pets to leave the area without further interaction.
Common Misconceptions About Fawns
“The fawn is alone and doesn’t move. It must need help!”
This is a common misconception. The doe intentionally stays away from the fawn during its first few weeks of life to avoid attracting predators. Fawns are naturally camouflaged and possess very little scent, which helps them remain hidden. They instinctively lie motionless when approached by a potential threat. This seemingly helpless state is a survival adaptation that has allowed white-tailed deer to thrive for generations. As fawns mature, they will eventually freeze briefly before jumping up and running away.
“The fawn looks hungry. Should I feed it?”
Never feed a fawn. Fawns have very specific nutritional requirements, and providing them with improper food can make them sick, even leading to death. Their digestive systems are delicate and adapted to their mother’s milk.
“My children touched the fawn. Will the mother reject it?”
The bond between a doe and her fawn is strong. A mother deer will not abandon her fawn due to human or pet scents. Abandonment is rare and usually occurs only if the fawn has severe defects that would prevent its survival. If you have touched a fawn, gently place it back in or near natural vegetation in the area where you found it to provide cover and protection. The doe will avoid the area until the disturbance has passed and will then return to search for her fawn. If more than 24 hours pass and the fawn is still alone, it may require assistance from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Alt text: A close-up showing the distinct spots of a white-tailed deer fawn, blending seamlessly with the forest floor.
Can You Keep a Fawn as a Pet?
No. Removing deer from the wild and keeping them in captivity is illegal in many places. Furthermore, the unnatural conditions of captivity can lead to malnutrition, injury, and stress, even with a well-intentioned caretaker. Wild animals accustomed to humans can also pose health risks and become dangerous as they mature.
What To Do If a Fawn Is Injured
Sometimes, fawns are injured by pets, vehicles, or farming equipment. Injured fawns should only receive care from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator authorized to handle them. These professionals can coordinate the transport and care of the fawn. Contacting a rehabilitator is the best way to get advice on handling an injured fawn.
Additional Information
For any questions regarding fawns or other young wild animals, contact your local wildlife services or department of natural resources. These resources can provide valuable information and guidance. Remember, understanding and respecting wildlife is crucial for their conservation and well-being.
