Fawn survival rates and mortality factors

Fawn mortality rates are significantly high during the first few weeks of life, with estimates ranging from 30% to over 70%. Survival depends on various factors including habitat quality, weather conditions, and predator presence.

Predation is identified as the primary cause of death. Common predators include coyotes, bobcats, and bears. Other contributing factors to mortality include disease, parasites, environmental stressors such as harsh weather, and human impacts like habitat loss and vehicle collisions.

In terms of behavior, fawns rely heavily on camouflage and the natural strategy of the doe, who leaves the fawn alone for extended periods to forage and avoid attracting predators. Intervention by humans is generally unnecessary unless the fawn is visibly injured, emaciated, or vocalizing excessively, as solitary behavior is a normal survival mechanism.