New-born Fawn Discovered at Lloyd Center
The Lloyd Center has had White-tailed Deer roaming its property for some time. Any given day on a trail walk, in the driveway, or at the bird feeder station, staff or visitors may see as many as five deer looking for the plentiful sources of browse in our mix of upland forest, wetlands, and open habitats.
Deer overpopulation has become an issue, as the species has become well adapted to human use areas and continue to thrive; deer nowadays seen crossing roads regularly, and even passing through beaches and shorebird refuges like never before. While deer are now more frequently associated with problems even with hunts undertaken to thin the herds in some cases, we are fortunate here at the Lloyd Center. Our property is surrounded by estuary, such that deer habitat carrying capacity is low and the small numbers can be enjoyed as an integral part of our diverse wildlife community. This includes sightings of fawns which we see late summer, including often at our ‘Music in the Woods” event.
On June 3 in the central island of our driveway loop, a staff member heard the sound of an animal, which turned out to be a fawn lying down in the woods. Because we could approach somewhat closely, and the fawn couldn’t stand up, it was easy to conclude the fawn was injured. But it became apparent that given the animal’s small size and no sign of injury, we had happened upon a newborn fawn. Later in the day the mother was seen returning to feed the fawn, which was gone the next day. This young deer later in the summer may be seen by visitors almost anywhere on the property. Deer are born in the spring and while appearing abandoned, are being visited by the mother regularly and should be left alone.
For more information about white-tailed deer and fawns in particular, please click here.
This fawn sighting is a reminder that wildlife, including birds, have young in June which may be encountered. This is a good time to observe the interaction between parents and young of wildlife on our property, but also a time to tread carefully and respectfully.
Never attempt to handle any young wildlife or approach too closely and linger, as a parent will likely be watching and will soon return. As a dog-friendly property, we also remind dog owners to control their pet when near any young wildlife, just like we do for endangered shorebirds at certain dog friendly beaches. By avoiding conflicts, we ensure the wildlife are unharmed and here for all visitors to enjoy.
Please stop by for a trail walk, to see what young wildlife might be on the move!