Leave fawns alone: BC Conservation Service

Editors note: This story was originally published on May, 29 2022.

The BC Conservation Officer Service has sent out a friendly reminder to British Columbians to not be a "fawn napper."

“It’s that time of year again where we remind the public to please not disturb fawns they may see alone outside – they are very likely not abandoned,” explains BC COS.

The agency receives many phone calls this time of year from people trying to rescue fawns that they believe have been orphaned.

However, conservation officers often tell them that interfering can cause more harm than good.

The agency says that it is common for does to leave their fawns for hours at a time while they forage for food.

The BC COS explains they do this to avoid attracting predators. The mother may only return a few times a day to nurse her young.

In addition, it is typical for fawns to lie quietly in vegetation for hours at a time, especially in the first few weeks of their lives when they are not strong enough to follow their mother.

Fawns may be cute and appear defenceless but moving a fawn can result in it not being found by its mother which can reduce its chances of survival.

The BC COS says a fawn is more likely to be orphaned if humans tamper with it. At the end of the day, it is best to just leave newborn deer alone.

However, if you are concerned a fawn is injured or abandoned, call the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.

The BC COS also points out that it is actually illegal under the Wildlife Act to take a fawn into your care. People who are found doing this can be fined for unlawful possession of live wildlife.

Finally, the agency reminds pet owners to keep their animals on a leash because deer can become aggressive when they are protecting their young.