WYG&F ask public to leave baby animals alone should they find them

With the Spring season, deer, elk and antelope are having fawns. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is requesting members of the public should they encounter a fawn or calf, do not approach, touch or move the animal. 

During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Game and Fish Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist Reed Moore asked the public to not touch and leave any baby animals where they were found.

R. Moore

According to the Game and Fish, fawns are intentionally left by their mothers for the first few weeks of life. The fawns are very vulnerable and instinctively remain quiet and still for the majority of the day. The mother comes regularly to feed the youngster, but otherwise stays a distance away in order to prevent predators from locating the fawn. 

Even if you don’t see a doe nearby, she is likely in the area and is caring for the fawn. Please do not touch, handle or move any wildlife. And please keep your distance from doe deer and antelope, and cow elk, as they may become protective of hidden calves nearby.

Many bird species have already hatched chicks and others will soon. If you come across a baby bird out of a nest, the Game and Fish ask to leave it. This happens as little ones learn to fly and the mother is usually nearby keeping an eye and providing food.

Game and Fish ask to please give plenty of space to any deer you see while out recreating. Keep your dog leashed or close to you. Choose another route of travel if deer are on the trail or pathway you are using.