rescuetipsfawns

Rescue Tips--
Do's and Don'ts

Special Tips on
FAWNS:

This is the time of year for infant White-tailed Deer. Fawns in Pennsylvania are generally born in late May and early June. During their first days of life, these delicate creatures are often left alone for long hours while their mother forages for food. Returning only to nurse their young, the mother knows that the hidden fawn is safe from predators because he has little or no scent and remains motionless in his bed.

Though primarily crepuscular, these deer may be active throughout the day, so it is possible to stumble onto an “abandoned” fawn at any time. In most cases the mother is nearby, nervously waiting for the intruder to leave. Since fawns are not completely weaned until they are approximately 4 months and they have shed their spotted coats, they must remain in their mother’s care. Even after they are weaned, fawns usually stay with and are cared for by their mother until they are about a year old.

If you find a fawn:

Do not touch or move the fawn unless it is in imminent danger or is obviously injured.

Watch with binoculars from a distance for several hours to see if the mother returns.

If you have concerns about the fawn’s safety or well-being, call a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

Please remember that White-tailed Deer are very easily stressed by captivity and contact with humans. So, please, if you find a fawn, be courteous and respectful and do not try to touch or move it.