Tips of the Month

Pet Tip of the Month

You found a fawn. Now what?

Fawns may start to appear during summer months. It is not uncommon to come across a fawn when you are out walking or perhaps even in your yard. Most of us may want to "rescue" the lone fawn when the majority of time it does not need rescuing and needs to be left on its own.

Does (adult female deer) hide their fawns in tall grass or brush so they can go feed without drawing predators to their offspring. A fawn can be left on its own for 6 hours or more at a time. The doe will return from time-to-time to nurse her fawn and will relocate them to a new secluded area. Fawns give off very little odor which helps them hide from predators. Fawns distinctly know to stay motionless when approached by potential predators.

There are times when help may be needed. If the fawn is clearly injured, covered in flies or maggots, is making distress calls for many hours, or is near a dead adult doe, seek help immediately. Begin with a call to the City's Animal Control at 240-487-3575 or Prince George's County Animal Management Services at 301-780-7241. You may also contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heritage Services at 410-260-8540 where they can direct you to someone who can either take the fawn or can help you locate a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

By the Animal Welfare Committee