Not every deer fawn found alone is an orphan.
That’s the message the BC SPCA is trying to spread this spring to avoid accidental “fawn-nappings,” this spring.
The BC SPCA says they receive calls about “orphaned” deer fawns hiding in backyards every May and June, and even sometimes people bringing fawns to Wild ARC, thinking they are rescuing them.
They add its normal for a mother deer to leave a fawn alone for long periods of time, and may only come back a few times a day to feed the baby.
If you find a fawn lying quietly, hiding in grass or brush, the BC SPCA says not to disturb them.
They add sometimes fawns do need help, and hiding quietly is their best strategy to avoid attracting predators.
The BC SPCA says if you’re worried a fawn may have been abandoned or orphaned, it’s ok to check on them from a distance over the next 24 hours.
They say to contact a wildlife rehabilitator if the fawn:
- hasn’t moved from their hiding spot in 24 hours
- is crying continuously
- is wandering aimlessly
- looks injured
- follows you
- is in an unsafe location
If the fawn needs help, the BC SPCA says you should contact your local wildlife rehabilitator, or the BC Conservation Officer Service.
Something going on in the Cariboo you think people should know about?
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