Effects of Dam-Newborn Fawn Behavior on Capture and Mortality

Abstract

The behavior pattern of white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus sirginianus) dams and newborn fawns was studied in south Texas. Understanding and concentrating on the behavior of the dam allows capture of large numbers of the normally cryptic young fawns. During the first days of life, fawns remain isolated and bedded most of the time. Dams seek out their fawns only a few times a day for nursing and grooming. Recognizing stereotyped behavior patterns and postures elicited when the dam is with or near a fawn greatly facilitates the location and capture of fawns. A description of whitetail fawns 1-2 days old is given. Capture, and particularly the marking, of young fawns increased mortality. We recommend that precations be taken to miniinize mortality, especially in areas where predators are com-