JUNE 2014 SUNRAYS | 9
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During spring and early
summer, it is common to see
deer that have recently given
birth to their fawns. Because
of the close proximity be-
tween the deer population
and residents in Sun City
Texas, these encounters can
be frequent and very “up-
close.” The deer in Sun City
Texas have become habituat-
ed to the residents, meaning
they have lost their fear of
humans and may have their
fawns in less-protected environments, like a resident’s back
yard. Having the opportunity to view the birth and initial
growth of a fawn is exciting, but may lead to inaccurate con-
clusion about the health and well-being of the newborn fawn.
Listed below are some general facts about deer fawning:
1. One should never handle fawns unless necessary. Some-
times people think the fawn is in trouble when in fact it is
natural for it to struggle to walk when newly born. Usually
in three days they become runners. Remember: just because
a fawn doesn’t move during the day doesn’t always mean it
is in trouble. Usually, after the third day, the mother doe
will move the fawn.
2. Because the deer have become habituated to people in Sun
City, they may have lost the instinct to hide their young.
Occasionally fawns are born in close proximity to homes
including yards or flower beds.
3. Just because a fawn is in full sun does not mean it is in
trouble; moving it can cause more harm then good. During
the day, the mother will return to the fawn to take care of
it. If, after an entire day, a fawn was not tended to by its
mother, it would become distressed.
4. Residents should not handle fawns; however, if the situation
warrants it, wear gloves to handle the fawn.
5. Sun City Texas residents should understand what is nor-
mal for deer and their young. Call the Parks & Wildlife
Department in Temple (254-778-8913) only if you are sure
a fawn is in distress.
Another concern residents might have relates to deer with fawns
and the required semi-annual Level Three mowing in Sun City
Texas. This activity coincides with the deer that are giving birth
to fawns. During the mowing, extreme care is used to detect and
avoid newly born deer. Unfortunately, some deer are injured, in
spite of the great care and attention given to detecting fawns.
The CA Staff are well aware of the deer population and their
habits and behaviors and, because of their concern, the impact
on the deer population and “fawning” is kept to a minimum.
Facts About Deer Fawning
Submitted by the Wildlife Management Committee
