Wisconsin DNR reminds residents to leave deer fawns alone this spring, saying young fawns are rarely abandoned and are safest with their mothers.
3 Things to Know
- The Wisconsin DNR says young deer fawns are often left alone for hours while their mothers feed nearby.
- Officials urge people not to touch, feed or move fawns found outdoors this spring and summer.
- It is illegal in Wisconsin to take wild animals from the wild to keep as pets or provide unlicensed rehabilitation.
Photo by Aaron J Hill
MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding residents to leave white-tailed deer fawns alone if they encounter them outdoors this spring and summer.
The agency said fawns are often left by themselves for long periods while their mothers search for food nearby. According to the DNR, this behavior is normal and helps protect young deer from predators.
“Young fawns are often left alone for most of the day to keep them safe,” said Jenna Fastner, DNR captive wildlife health specialist. “Although their mother can return at any time, white-tailed deer are crepuscular, or more active at dawn and dusk, which means the fawn can be alone for long periods between feedings. By the Fourth of July, most fawns are on the move alongside or near their mothers.”
Why Fawns Are Often Alone
The DNR said fawns rely on their spotted coats and limited scent to remain hidden during their first few weeks of life. While they can walk shortly after birth, they are not yet fast enough to consistently travel with their mothers or escape predators.
Officials stressed that finding a fawn alone does not usually mean it has been abandoned.
If a fawn appears healthy and is lying quietly, the DNR recommends leaving the area immediately and avoiding any interaction.
What To Do If You Find A Deer Fawn
The DNR offered several reminders for anyone who encounters a fawn outdoors:
- Do not touch or move the fawn.
- Keep people and pets away from the area.
- Do not feed the animal.
- Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before attempting any intervention.
The agency also warned that feeding wildlife can cause nutritional problems and other health complications for young animals.
Wildlife Laws In Wisconsin
The DNR reminded residents that it is illegal in Wisconsin to take wild animals from nature to keep as pets or provide rehabilitation without proper licensing.
Officials said the best chance for survival for young wildlife is to remain in their natural environment with their mothers whenever possible.
For more information about Wisconsin wildlife and licensed rehabilitators, visit the Wisconsin DNR website.
