With baby season underway for B.C.'s wildlife, particularly the fawning season, Langley's Critter Care Wildlife Society is sharing some tips on preventing and avoiding human-deer conflicts in urban areas.
Some mistakes people make include feeding the animal, taking an animal in to heal it themselves, and intervening before clarifying whether or not the animal is actually injured, sick, or orphaned, senior wildlife supervisor Jenna Kuncewicz said.
Deer should be given plenty of space, the B.C. ministry of water, land, and resource stewardship said in a statement.
"A doe will often leave her fawns alone for hours while she feeds, returning throughout the day to nurse. Fawns may appear to be orphaned and helpless, but this is to avoid predators," reads the statement.
Urban deer populations are growing in many communities across B.C., as deer can successfully forage and raise their offspring in these areas.
“Wildlife are very different from domestic animals and cannot withstand certain things that domestics can, and vice versa. Wildlife Rehabilitation is a very specialized field and it is important to consult with experts before doing anything,” Kuncewicz advised.
She added that feeding a baby animal the incorrect milk can harm them, and smelling, hearing, or being in close contact with humans or pets can severely stress the animal.
If anyone is unsure if a fawn is orphaned, Kuncewicz encourages people to call Critter Care’s injured animals helpline can be reached at 604-530-2064.
SEE ALSO: Langley wildlife shelter seeks supplies, food to help with baby season
RELATED: Langley wildlife sanctuary offers tips on when to help wild animals