Second Chance Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
For the first few days after birth, a fawn or calf is not strong enough to keep up with its mother. To help keep the fawn safe from predators, the mother leaves the fawn alone for several hours at a time while she forages returning to nurse it a few times a day. At this age, fawns essentially have no odor that would attract a predator and their natural camouflage helps keep them safe.
If you find a fawn that is alone and quite it is probably fine. Do not touch it. Leave the area, as the mother will not return if people or dogs are present. Leave it alone for 8-12 hours before contacting your local Division of Wildlife or a wildlife rehabilitator unless you know for sure the mother is dead. If the fawn is lying stretched out on its side, is wandering around crying, or if dogs or people pose a threat, contact your local DOW or a wildlife rehabilitator. Do not attempt to feed the fawn.
If you find a fawn that is alone and quite it is probably fine. Do not touch it. Leave the area, as the mother will not return if people or dogs are present. Leave it alone for 8-
FAWNS
