Found A Fawn?
A fawn alone is almost never abandoned. Does intentionally leave their fawns for long stretches during the day – it’s a survival strategy, not a sign something is wrong. Check the ears before doing anything else.
Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
If the fawn is injured or in danger, please call right away.
Found a Fawn?
A Fawn Alone Is Almost Never Abandoned
Quick Steps to Help
A calm, gentle response gives fawns the best chance of survival. Start with one quick observation — then follow the right path below.
Ears up and alert? Walk away. She's fine.
Upright, perky ears mean the fawn is healthy, alert, and exactly where its mother left it. A doe intentionally leaves her fawn hidden for long stretches - often most of the day. This is completely normal behavior, not abandonment.
- Do not touch or move the fawn. Human scent can complicate the reunion. Unless it is visibly injured, leave it exactly where it is.
- Keep people, pets, and noise away. The less disturbance near the fawn, the better the chance the mother returns. Keep dogs and cats well clear of the area.
- Do not attempt to feed or give water. Fawns have very specific nutritional needs - even water given incorrectly can cause serious harm.
- Check back at dusk. If the fawn is still in the exact same spot by the following morning and the ears remain up, call us for guidance.
Ears curled or drooping? This fawn needs help.
Curled or drooping ears are a clear sign of dehydration and distress. This is not a wait-and-see situation - call us immediately. The same applies if the fawn is visibly injured, unresponsive, or has been in contact with a pet.
- Do not attempt to give food or water. Feeding a fawn - even water - can cause bloat, aspiration, and rapid decline. Only a licensed rehabilitator should provide nutrition.
- Minimize handling. If the fawn must be moved out of immediate danger, use a towel or blanket to gently contain it and limit direct contact as much as possible.
- Place in a quiet, contained space. A cardboard box in a warm, dark, quiet area away from pets and household noise. Do not attempt to wrap or swaddle tightly.
- Take a photo if possible. A photo helps our team assess condition and urgency before you arrive.
- Call us immediately. Do not wait to see if the fawn improves on its own.
Did You Know
Quick Fawn Facts
🦌 Spots Provide Camouflage
👃 Very Little Scent
🧍♂️ Human Intervention Isn’t Always Needed
🌳 Left Alone on Purpose
Your compassion makes healing possible
Every rescue and second chance begins with caring people like you. Your support helps provide medical care, safe rehabilitation, and the time wildlife needs to heal and return to the wild where they belong.
Together, we can protect and care for the wildlife that shares our community.