Leave fawns alone: B.C. Conservation Officer Service – Okanagan
It’s fawning season and B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) is reminding residents once more that in case you come throughout a fawn, “simply depart it alone.”
They could look cute, defenceless, even lonely, however child deer and different wild animals ought to by no means be touched or moved, the COS says.
“Yearly, well-intentioned folks attempt to ‘rescue’ fawns mistakenly regarded as orphaned, however these interventions do extra hurt than good,” reads a COS press launch.
“Mom deer, moose, elk, and different species might depart their younger alone for lengthy durations. To keep away from attracting predators, a mom might solely return a couple of occasions a day to nurse.”
Learn extra:
Fawn mauled in Kelowna, B.C. park by off-leash canine
When mom deer do return to their younger, they are often anticipated to defend their child from actual or perceived threats, together with close by people and pets. COS added that it’s typical for younger hoofed animals to lie quietly in vegetation for hours at a time, particularly within the first two weeks of their lives once they’re not sturdy sufficient to comply with their moms.
Fawns are as small as cats when they’re born, however their camouflage and lack of scent conceal them from potential predators.
“Though these infants might look deserted, they don’t seem to be,” mentioned COS. “Nevertheless, if people take away them from their relaxation spots, they’ll find yourself being orphaned.”
COS says taking a fawn into your care is towards the legislation and you may be fined. Fines begin at $345 for illegal possession of reside wildlife.
“The Conservation Officer Service is taking a tough stance on these points as a result of it’s an issue that they’re making an attempt to get rid of,” mentioned COS.
“Conservation Officers are reminding people who the most effective factor they’ll do to make sure a fawn’s survival is to depart the new child deer fawns alone and leash up their canines whereas out strolling.”
If you’re involved {that a} fawn is injured or orphaned, if there may be proof the mother or father is useless, contact the Conservation Officer Service by way of the (RAPP) line 1-877-952-7277.
