Finding a newly born deer fawn or an elk calf is more common while enjoying the outdoors this time of year and if you find one, the Division of Wildlife Resources is asking that you simply keep your distance and leave the animal alone. In fact, the Division of Wildlife Resources reports that every year there are calls from people who have found what they believe to be an “abandoned” fawn or calf. While the DWR appreciates the concern it’s important to understand that deer and elk use techniques to help their young avoid predators. In fact, it is the holding or petting of newly born fawn or elk that puts the animals in great danger. The animal’s survival depends on staying scentless. If you touch the animal, you’ve placed your scent on it. That will make it easier for a predator to find it. So what should you do if you see a deer fawn or elk calf? Watch it or take a photo of it from a distance but don’t approach it. In almost every case, the fawn has not been abandoned by its mother. For more tips, visit wildlife.utah.gov.
