Fallow deer are medium-sized deer, with a typically spotted coat. They inhabit woodlands, forests, and open fields across different regions worldwide. Fallow deer are social animals living in small herds, and are primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, and twigs.
Baby Fallow Deer – Meet the Fawn
Did you know that a baby fallow deer is called a fawn? Just like how human babies have different names, fallow deer babies have special titles too. Male fallow deer are called bucks, females are called does, and their adorable little ones are known as fawns.
When Fawns Are Born
Fawn births are truly magical moments in the animal kingdom. Fallow deer fawns are typically born during the spring and early summer. It’s during this time that the forests and meadows come alive with the sight of these tiny bundles of joy.
When Do Fawns Begin to Walk
That’s perhaps one of the most impressive facts. Fallow baby deer start walking soon after they’re born! They’ll be making first very awkward steps within the first 20 minutes of their lives.
When Fawns Start Eating Grass
While fawns are nursing, they rely on their mothers for all their nutritional needs. However, as they grow, their taste buds start to yearn for something new. Around 2-3 weeks of age, these curious little deer start nibbling on tender grasses. It’s an important step towards becoming independent.
When Fawns Leave Their Mother
As fawns grow older, they begin to explore the world around them. When they reach around 4-6 months of age, their mothers encourage them to become more independent. Fawns gradually learn crucial survival skills, such as finding food and staying safe, under the watchful eye of their mothers. It’s a bittersweet moment when they eventually venture out on their own.
Spotty Coat
Typically, young deer lose their spots around 90-120 days old, which is around 3-4 months. However, unlike other deer species, fallow deer fawns retain their spots, and it is only when they develop their winter coats that the spots disappear temporarily for the season.
Encountering an ‘Abandoned’ Baby Deer in the Woods
Sometimes, while exploring the woods, you might stumble upon a baby deer that appears to be alone. Before assuming the fawn is abandoned, it’s essential to remember that mother deer often leave their fawns hidden and return periodically to nurse them. It’s their way of protecting them from predators. If you come across a fawn, it’s best to quietly leave the area and not disturb it. The mother will likely return soon.
Source: https://wondeerful.farm/story/baby-deer-fawn [visit for more pictures and videos of baby deer]
