Intervention in Obourg: well-meaning action puts young fawn at risk

At the request of the Mons/Quévy Police Zone, the Animal Disaster Team (ADT) responded urgently to a call in Obourg. A young fawn, found alone in a field, had been taken by walkers who thought they were doing the right thing.

Although well-intentioned, this action unfortunately had harmful consequences. The fawn was separated from its mother, who was nearby, discreetly watching over her young.

In spring and early summer, it’s common to come across young fawns lying motionless in the grass. But contrary to what many may think:

➡️ They are not abandoned.
➡️ Their mother leaves them alone temporarily to avoid attracting predators.
➡️ Their stillness and lack of scent are their main forms of protection.

Touching or moving a fawn disrupts this delicate balance. It can cause extreme stress, lead to rejection by the mother, or result in lasting physical and behavioural issues.

The fawn taken in Obourg was immediately cared for by our team and transferred to the CREAVES centre in Perwez, a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility.

From now on, it will have to be bottle-fed, raised, and cared for by humans — significantly reducing its chances of ever returning to the wild in optimal conditions.

Every year, many young wild animals are needlessly removed from their natural environment. To avoid this, here are the right steps to take:

🔸 A fawn lying alone is rarely in danger — its mother is usually nearby.
🔸 Never touch it — your scent may cause the mother to reject it.
🔸 If in doubt, contact a wildlife centre or the local authorities.
🔸 Never capture a wild animal without professional advice.

Nature follows its own rules. Trying to help without the right knowledge can endanger the very animals we want to protect. Raising public awareness about this is crucial.

🙏 Please share this message widely: the right actions save more lives than good intentions alone.