This is the time of year that we all need to be careful as we drive around, especially on the back roads. The whitetails doe’s that were bred this past autumn will be and are giving birth to their fawns. You never know when you will come across one of these little tikes that have no clue yet of what is out there in the world and even more what a vehicle is. Just the other day I had one dart out in front of my truck with momma deer standing on the side of the road waiting for me to go by. Fortuneately I was paying attention.

I found a very interesting article about the Whitetail Fawn, so I wanted to share some of it with you and invite you to read the rest of it by visiting the Buckmasters website afterwards.

By: Rick Kratzke

Text & Photos by Tommy Kirkland

Each year throughout North America from late May and on into July, deer fawns are springing up. If undisturbed, a fawn or fawns’ birth site is instinctively chosen by its mother. At times, these birthing areas are utilized by parenting females year after year. Generally, the doe, particularly older females, seek out the best habitat available for the birthing process. The area is usually some 20 to 30 acres with water, concealment and quality nutrition.

Just prior to giving birth, the impregnated female separates herself from the other deer, including her own if she isn’t a first-time mother. If no complications arise during birth, then her maternal nature is in full swing by now.

With the condition that the female doesn’t abandon the newborn infant, then she is quick to consume the afterbirth. She will also intensely groom the little deer - removing all blood and remains from giving birth. This activity minimizes odors that can attract predators as well as insects.

Newborn whitetails rely on their instinct to remain motionless and quiet for survival. However, fawns born in food plots and working agricultural fields are more vulnerable to roaming predators in comparison to fawns born in underbrush or forested areas simply because they are easier to spot where the land is maintained for nutrition.

Read the complete article:

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