Found a Fawn?

Most fawns don't need rescuing. Here's how to tell—and what to do if they truly need help.

Do Not Move the Fawn

Mother deer leave their fawns alone for hours at a time—this is normal behavior. A fawn lying quietly in grass, even if it looks "abandoned," is usually just waiting for its mother to return. Moving a healthy fawn can separate it from its mother permanently.

When Does a Fawn Actually Need Help?

Look for these specific signs before intervening.

Signs of Distress

The fawn may need help if you observe:

  • Fawn is crying continuously for hours
  • Visible injuries, wounds, or blood
  • Fawn is wandering and appears weak
  • Covered in flies or maggots
  • Dead mother nearby
  • Fawn in immediate danger (road, predator)

Normal Fawn Behavior

Leave the fawn alone if:

  • Fawn is lying quietly in grass or brush
  • Ears are up and alert
  • No visible injuries
  • Eyes are clear and bright
  • You haven't observed it for 24+ hours
  • It's in a safe, quiet location

What To Do If You Find a Fawn

A step-by-step guide to responding appropriately.

1

Observe from a distance

Stay at least 50 feet away. Use binoculars if possible. Your presence may scare the mother away.

2

Check for signs of distress

Look for the warning signs listed above: injuries, constant crying, weakness, flies, etc.

3

Wait and monitor

If no distress signs, check back in 8-12 hours. Mother typically returns at dawn and dusk.

4

If distressed, contact a rehabber

Don't try to feed or care for the fawn yourself. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

5

Keep pets and people away

Dogs especially can stress or harm fawns. Keep the area quiet and secure until help arrives.

Find a Wildlife Rehabilitator

Use these resources to locate licensed help near you.

Animal Help Now

A free app and website that helps you find licensed wildlife rehabilitators and emergency animal services in your area.

Find Help Near You

State Wildlife Agencies

Your state's fish and wildlife department can provide listings of licensed rehabilitators and guidance for wildlife emergencies.

Find Your State Office

Why Fawns Lie Still

Fawns are born with almost no scent and a spotted coat that camouflages them perfectly. Their instinct is to lie completely still when danger is near—this is their main survival strategy for the first weeks of life. A fawn that "won't run away" isn't injured or sick—it's doing exactly what nature designed it to do.