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Steer clear of baby deer
BASC is issuing advice to the public to be mindful of pregnant deer and their newborns while visiting the countryside this spring.
Each year, healthy young deer are unnecessarily taken to rescue centres by well-meaning people who believe they need help.
However, disturbing, moving, or touching these newborns can cause their mothers to abandon them, often resulting in the death of young deer.
Martin Edwards, BASC’s head of deer and woodland management, said that young deer stay hidden and well-camouflaged in grass and underbrush while their mothers feed nearby.
However, disturbing, moving, or touching these newborns can cause their mothers to abandon them, often resulting in death for the young deer.
Martin Edwards, BASC’s head of deer and woodland management, said that young deer stay hidden and well-camouflaged in grass and underbrush while their mothers feed nearby.
He said: “The mothers naturally return every couple of hours to feed and nurse the youngster until they are strong enough to join them on their daily activities.”
Keep dogs on a lead
“It is vital at this time of year that those enjoying outdoor spaces keep dogs on a lead,” Martin added. “Off-lead dogs can chase pregnant deer or disturb newborns.”
BASC is asking the general public to:
- Respect both wild and farmed deer
- Give pregnant deer and new mothers plenty of space
- Do not touch or disturb newborn deer found alone
- Keep your dogs on a lead
More information about deer and managing deer populations can be found here.
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