Young animal brought to wildlife rescue center – tips on how to behave correctly around fawns
After several young deer were sighted in the area of the mini-golf course at Tännchen in Weiterstadt, the city asks for special consideration for wild animals and points out the correct way to deal with seemingly abandoned fawns.
Following reports of the animals, the responsible hunting leaseholder and the animal welfare organization were informed. A joint inspection revealed that two young animals were in the area. One of the animals, initially thought to be a fawn, was already somewhat older. A mother doe could not be located on site.
One of the young animals appeared weak and dehydrated. After careful assessment of the situation, it was decided to capture the animal and take it to a wildlife rescue center. There it will now receive expert care and be raised.
Do not touch fawns
The town of Weiterstadt is using this incident as an opportunity to raise awareness about the proper way to handle young wild animals. Fawns are often left alone by their mothers in tall grass or meadows while the doe searches for food nearby. This behavior is natural and does not automatically mean that the young animal has been abandoned or needs help.
People should therefore avoid touching fawns. Human scent can cause the mother to reject her young. Dogs should also be kept on a leash, especially in fields and woodland areas, and away from wild animals.
The city asks that people not prematurely assume that young animals appear to be alone are in need of help. Anyone who believes a wild animal is injured or actually in distress should inform the responsible hunting leaseholder, the authorities, or animal welfare organizations and should not intervene independently.
This recent case demonstrates the importance of cooperation between hunting and animal welfare. The coordinated approach allowed for rapid assistance to the weakened animal while simultaneously ensuring the protection of wildlife.
(WEITERSTADT – RED/PSW)
