How long should a fawn presumed orphaned be observed from a distance to determine if its mother is nearby?

• A. 6 hours
• B. 24 hours
• C. 12 hours
• D. 48 hours

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to give a fawn a chance to be reunited with its mother without disturbing them. Deer mothers leave their hidden fawns while they forage and may return at varying intervals, sometimes over many hours. Watching from a distance for about 12 hours covers a full cycle of potential mom visits (including day and night) and helps distinguish a truly orphaned fawn from one that’s temporarily apart. If no sign of the mother appears within roughly half a day, it’s appropriate to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator rather than try to care for the fawn yourself. During observation, stay quiet and distant, use binoculars if needed, and avoid handling or feeding the fawn.