The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre is currently caring for three black-tail deer fawns, including one that was attacked by a predator and is being treated for a deep wound to his flank area.
A set of twins were also admitted last week when they were found yards away from a dead doe on the roadside. For every one fawn the centre admits due to legitimate reasons, centre staff say they are answering 20 phone calls regarding fawns that are not truly orphaned and need to be left alone.
It is very normal to see fawns alone at this time of year as the doe will feed her young only a few times each day and then leave the fawn alone while she goes off to feed herself, according to a news release from the centre. A fawn may be left for 12-24 hours depending on age and normally reunites with the mother in the dark and quiet of night time. The centre urges people to not pick up fawns that they do not know 100 per cent have been orphaned (i.e. dead doe on roadside). Please call the centre first (250-248-8534) and they will help determine whether the fawn really does need help.
When you find a fawn laying out flat on the side or in the middle of the road, stop and gently herd them off into the bush or ditch. If it is necessary that the fawn must be brought to the centre, do not feed it. It is also illegal to have wildlife in your possession without a permit from the Ministry of Environment.
— Submitted by NIWRA