Do Fawns Follow Their Mothers After Being Shot?

Fawn Abandonment Behavior

When a doe is shot and wounded, her fawn may initially stay with her, but if she becomes weak or shows signs of distress, the fawn will likely abandon her to avoid being detected by predators or hunters. This instinctual behavior is crucial for the fawn’s survival. In some cases, the fawn may remain with the doe for up to 24 hours after the injury if she is still mobile and seems healthy.

Tracking Wounded Deer

To track a wounded deer, it’s essential to follow the blood trail, which can be difficult to spot due to the doe’s initial shock and subsequent bleeding. The blood will typically be more concentrated in the doe’s tracks, and you may also notice a trail of urine and feces. When tracking, it’s crucial to move quietly and follow the blood trail, as wounded deer can travel significant distances - up to 1 mile - before collapsing.

Fawn Recovery and Survival

After a fawn abandons its mother, it will typically rely on its own instincts to survive. The fawn’s coat will start to change color to blend in with its surroundings, and it will begin to forage for food, including plants, twigs, and insects. In some cases, the fawn may even approach other deer, including does that are not its mother. However, the fawn’s survival rate is significantly lower than that of a fawn that stays with its mother, as it lacks her guidance and protection.