Helping fawns enjoy Spring too
While it’s tempting to rescue baby fawns found alone in the forest, in most cases, they are just waiting for mom to return while she is out foraging. Young deer are not always with their mothers, so give them space and if you see a small fawn in the same spot for over two days, give us a call and we will go over what to do.
Spring is here!
Spring has finally sprung in Northern Michigan and one of the most enchanting sights of springtime is the arrival of baby white-tailed deer, gracefully bounding through the fields and forests. While spending time outdoors, you may find one of these young animals hiding, but, it is crucial to understand the importance of leaving them undisturbed. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why it is essential to respect the natural process and leave baby white-tailed deer alone during the spring season. Here are 5 reasons to leave these animals alone so they can enjoy Springtime too.
1. Protection of Natural Instincts
Baby white-tailed deer are born with a remarkable ability to blend into their surroundings. Their reddish-brown fur with white spots helps camouflage them among the forest floor. By leaving them undisturbed, we allow these fawns to fully develop their natural instincts, such as remaining still and hidden when danger approaches. This ability to stay concealed is crucial for their survival in the wild.
2. Minimal Human Intervention
Human intervention can have unintended consequences on the well-being of baby white-tailed deer. When well-meaning individuals encounter a seemingly abandoned fawn, they may assume it has been orphaned and try to rescue or relocate it. However, more often than not, the mother is nearby, keeping a watchful eye on her offspring. By interfering, we disrupt the natural bond between mother and fawn, potentially causing the mother to abandon her young. It is best to allow nature to take its course and trust the instincts of these animals.
3. Adequate Nutrition and Nurturing
White-tailed deer mothers invest a significant amount of time and effort into rearing their young. During the first few weeks of a fawn's life, the mother will leave her offspring hidden and return periodically to nurse them. These nursing sessions are critical for the fawn's growth and development, as the mother's milk provides essential nutrients. By leaving baby white-tailed deer alone, we ensure that they receive the necessary nutrition and nurturing from their mothers, promoting their overall health and well-being.
4. Minimizing Stress and Disturbance
Approaching or handling a baby white-tailed deer can cause immense stress and fear in these delicate creatures. Fawns are naturally skittish and rely on remaining hidden and motionless to protect themselves from predators. Human interaction disrupts their sense of security, potentially leading to increased stress levels, which can have detrimental effects on their health. By keeping our distance and allowing them to grow undisturbed, we minimize the stress these animals experience and provide them with the best chance of survival.
5. Encouraging Wildlife Conservation
Respecting the natural behaviors and needs of baby white-tailed deer during the spring serves as a testament to our commitment to wildlife conservation. By observing from a distance and refraining from intervening, we demonstrate our understanding of the delicate balance of nature and our role in preserving it. Appreciating these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat fosters a deeper connection with the environment and promotes a sense of responsibility towards protecting wildlife for future generations.
Conclusion
While it may be difficult to resist the urge to approach and interact with baby white-tailed deer during spring, it is essential to prioritize their well-being and respect their natural processes. By leaving them undisturbed, we provide them with the best chance of survival, allow them to develop their instincts, and maintain their natural bond with their mothers. Let us embrace the beauty of the species from a distance and play our part in promoting wildlife conservation and ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature.
If you find a young fawn in your area, give it a few hours before worrying about it. Chances are mom is nearby and is likely watching you. If after two days you still see the fawn in the same location, give us a call and we will walk you through what to do.
