These gentle herd animals are loved by many, but the disappearance of wild lands has led them into increasing conflicts with humans; they’re often killed when they wander onto roads (endangering human lives too) and they drive gardeners to distraction with their nibbling ways. They’re often targeted for mass kills to reduce their numbers, but these are ineffective and unnecessary. There are ways to peacefully coexist with deer.
When deer come into conflicts with humans, communities often start talking about lethal means of control—but that shouldn’t be the answer. We have led advances in the field of immunocontraception, which provides an effective means of population control by preventing more births instead of killing the animals.
If you find a wild fawn, don’t assume they've been abandoned! Usually the mother is nearby grazing, making sure not to draw potential predators toward her little one. Unless you can see the fawn is injured or the mother is known to be dead, you don’t need to intervene.
No matter how big or small your outdoor space, you can create a haven for local wildlife. By providing basic needs like water, food and shelter, you can make a difference in your own backyard.
