As spring slowly starts turning into summer you might come upon newborn fawns. Fawns are born between mid-May to early June. Yes, they are adorable but let’s go over what to do if you stumble upon one.
IF YOU HAPPEN TO SEE A FAWN
JUST ADMIRE FROM A DISTANCE! If you come across a fawn, do not touch it. Fawn’s response mechanism is to crouch and remain motionless. You might believe it to be injured or orphaned but Mother’s usually do not abandon their young as long as it is left alone and stays in a nearby area. Mother’s do not get more than 100 yards from their baby. Although, moving fawns to a safer spot is perfectly fine as long as it is in the same area. Newborn fawns spend most of their time bedded down, lying still, and making it hard for predators to find them. Fun fact: Fawn scent glands are not developed yet so the mother will leave it alone for several hours during the day so her scent does not rub off on it. If you are unsure what to do when you come across a fawn, you can contact state wildlife officials or local animal control.
SIGN OF AN ABANDONED FAWN
Bleating or crying out
Wandering around crying
A fawn has spent more than 10-12 hours in the same spot
Fawn is unresponsive or lethargic
You see evidence of the dead doe
NEXT STEPS
Contact state or local animal control to get the fawn to a licensed rehabilitation center.