If you see a fawn alone in the coming weeks, keep your distance.
That’s what New Hampshire wildlife officials are reminding people.
Deer will start giving birth around the state in the next few weeks. Each spring, many residents see fawns by themselves and worry if they are abandoned. Authorities say in most cases, the answer is no.
Adult deer can be easily detected by predators, they said, due to their scent and large size. Because of this, does will spend long periods of time away from their fawns to disassociate their scent from the fawn and keep them safe from predators.
Authorities said for the first month of life, the doe will only visit the fawn a few times a day to nurse quickly before leaving again, although usually not going too far.
Those who see a fawn or any other young wildlife and suspect it has been abandoned should contact the Fish and Game Department to make a report.
Residents should never take in wildlife, which can lead to their sickness and death. For example, deer fawns that have been fed cow’s milk will develop severe diarrhea.
It’s illegal to take in wildlife in New Hampshire unless you have rehabilitator credentials.
Associated Press