Do NOT assume a fawn is orphaned.

• Does leave fawns hidden while foraging (the babies are not strong enough to travel with mom)

• Interference can cause fatal capture myopathy

• Fawns are easily habituated. Please keep children and dogs away. Do not hold or pet them. 

Rescue Needed If:

• Crying continuously

• Curled crispy ears and sunken eyes

• Fly-covered, fly-strike present (larva appears as white grains of rice), maggots present

• Diarrhea, injured, lethargic, unable to stand

• Mother confirmed deceased

➡️ Find licensed fawn rehabilitators:

• NC: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/73bc3bdec5c5477bb783baa398f8eaeb

• SC: https://www.wildlife-rehab.com/found-an-animal.htm

Injured or Sick Adult Deer (North Carolina)

Adult deer cannot be rehabilitated in North Carolina, per the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC).

If you suspect a fatal disease such as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD):

• Do not transport the deer out of the county — this is illegal.

• CWD is always fatal, and there is currently no cure.

• Contact the NCWRC district biologist for your area for guidance and assistance (https://www.ncwildlife.gov/wildlife-management/wmdistrictbiologistcontactspdf/open)

• Your local Animal Control agency may also be able to help if the deer is suffering.

If you observe an adult deer with:

• A lodged arrow

• Wire, rope, or another foreign object around the neck or limb

• Other serious visible injuries

Please contact NCWRC:

• Monday–Friday: 866-318-2401

• Weekends: 800-662-7137

Please do not attempt to capture or handle an adult deer yourself.