Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks urges residents to resist the urge to intervene when encountering young wildlife, especially during spring and summer. Many animals, such as whitetail deer fawns, appear abandoned but are actually being cared for by their mothers.
Wildlife officials note that a fawn’s stillness is a natural behavior for safety, not a sign of illness. Mothers typically remain nearby, observing from a distance while their young remain hidden.
The department advises people to admire young animals from afar and avoid touching or moving them. Interfering can do more harm than good, officials say.
More information on why leaving young wildlife alone is recommended can be found at the department’s website. The photos accompanying the message were taken by Steve Gulledge.
