Steer clear of baby deer

BASC is issuing advice to the public to be mindful of pregnant deer and their newborns while visiting the countryside this spring.

Each year, healthy young deer are unnecessarily taken to rescue centres by well-meaning people who believe they need help. 

However, disturbing, moving, or touching these newborns can cause their mothers to abandon them, often resulting in the death of young deer.

Martin Edwards, BASC’s head of deer and woodland management, said that young deer stay hidden and well-camouflaged in grass and underbrush while their mothers feed nearby.

However, disturbing, moving, or touching these newborns can cause their mothers to abandon them, often resulting in death for the young deer.

Martin Edwards, BASC’s head of deer and woodland management, said that young deer stay hidden and well-camouflaged in grass and underbrush while their mothers feed nearby. 

He said: “The mothers naturally return every couple of hours to feed and nurse the youngster until they are strong enough to join them on their daily activities.”