FAWNING

good intentions, but it’s actually very harmful to the baby deer.” knowledge, the corrugated metal pipe had corroded and in conjunction with the heavy rain, caused the collapse. e corrugated metal pipe that failed was ve and a half feet in diameter, Hudson said.

A fawn’s main protection from predators is its lack of scent, so when a person touches the animal, or even comes too close to one, it transfers a scent that can leave it vulnerable to other animals, Van Hoose said.

When a fawn is moved from the location where its mother left it, they have a very small chance of ever being safely reunited, Van Hoose added.

Additionally, Van Hoose said a fawn is very unlikely to move when approached, and some people take this as a green light to pick one up or get too close.

“ ere really aren’t any good solutions once the fawn has been picked up,” Van Hoose said.

Unlike other animals, deer and fawns are not easily rehabilitated, and the only way to avoid this risk of safety or separation is to leave them alone..

“ e heavy rain that we got caused the soil to basically erode out from under the road because the pipe was leaking because of all the corrosion,” said Hudson.

No injuries or property damage associated with this issue have been is year, Van Hoose said some problem areas have been in Castle Rock, Parker, Elbert County, Elizabeth, and surrounding areas.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, as well as the Colorado State Patrol, has been receiving a high volume of calls this year, with a noticeable spike in early June. Callers either have questions regarding the issue, or in the worst case, have already picked up a fawn and are asking about how to proceed, according to Van Hoose.

Van Hoose said the policy for response to these inquiries is education rst, the necessity for greater public awareness.

“Mostly it’s about spreading the word to people who don’t know or people who think that they are helping by moving deer to another location,” Van Hoose said.

Although fawning season is nearly over, the issue has persisted through the years, and it appears to be escalating. Van Hoose is not quite sure of the reason for the increased number of calls this year, positing a spike in new uninformed residents or a more fruitful fawning season as possible explanations.

Looking for unique food options, star-studded country music and vintage cars all in the same place this summer? Visit the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo from July 28 to Aug. 6. To purchase tickets and view the schedule, visit FairandRodeoFun.com

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