That Fawn You See Hasn't Been Abandoned, Darien PD Says

DARIEN, CT — Those fawns you see in fields in Darien have not been abandoned by their mothers, they are simply between feedings, according to the Darien Police Department and Darien Animal Control.

Recently the department has experienced an increase in calls about the animals, but they say that the "only time a female (doe) will be found with a fawn is during feeding times," which take place three to four times a day and only last about 15 minutes per feeding session.

"During the long periods left alone, newborn fawns instinctively freeze and will lay motionless when approached," Darien police stated on Instagram. "According to [Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection], if you come across a fawn, it is best to leave it alone for at least 48 hours to determine whether the adult is returning for feedings. While waiting for the doe to return, it is important that both people and dogs stay away from the fawn."

If a fawn has truly been orphaned, it "may show signs of distress by walking around aimlessly and calling out for several hours."

The department says that most fawns that are found alone, are not orphaned. Doe's give birth to their fawns from May through the end of June, and the "doe will rarely be found near her fawn for the first few weeks of its life because her presence may attract predators."

Additionally, fawns are able to hide from predators because it they are well camouflaged and have very little odor.

"Often times, young fawns are found in and around yards. This is not abnormal. If you observe that the animal appears sick or injured, please contact Police Communications at 203.662.5300."