Through May and July, deer mothers are giving birth to fawns, and since we’re about to enter that season, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources wanted to remind residents not to interfere and leave the fawns alone.
The fawns are oftentimes purposely left alone by their mothers so as not to attract predators, but periodically return throughout the day to feed their children. Does also do not spend much time with the fawns during each visit.
The Virginia DWR recommends that average citizens should not approach fawns, even if they see one that could be injured or truly orphaned. If you see an injured or orphaned animal, instead call the DWR wildlife conflict helpline at 1-855-571-9003, or find a wildlife rehabilitator here.
“In Roanoke County, Franklin, Giles, Floyd, you cannot take a fawn in, you cannot take it anywhere, you cannot cross the county lines,“It is important to leave the fawn alone so that the mother has the best chance of raising them. Do not take them in, do not feed them. If you feed them, they don’t call mom because they’re not hungry.“
Sabrina Garvin, co-founder of Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center
It is also illegal to keep any wild animal as a pet, as it can be dangerous for both the animal and the human.
Chronic wasting disease is also a concern in certain areas of the commonwealth. Be sure to find more information here.