Friday, June 19, 2015

Fawn Season Has Arrived

Living in the mountains means sharing space with wildlife.  After all, they were here first.  I can't even begin to describe what a privilege it is to see deer meander through our yard on a daily basis, to spot a bear now and then and on very rare occasions to glimpse a mountain lion.

And, of course, there are the smaller creatures such as rabbits, skunks, racoons and squirrels who entertain us with their antics.  The squirrels are especially fun to watch.

But, nothing beats fawn season.  There is a doe who spends much of her time hanging around our house.  I've pretty much given up on my flower beds because she not only eats the flowers, but likes to lay in the moist soil.  It probably feels nice and cool on hot summer days.  When the apples are ripe, she leaves a few for us if we're lucky.  We noticed a few weeks ago that she was getting pretty big in the belly and suspected she was pregnant.

Think there might be something in there?


She's not telling.



The last couple of weeks, she's been exhibiting nesting behavior such as digging a hole under the motor home and spending hours under there.  Or, sometimes she spends her afternoons under the tractor.  Looking for a den, maybe?



Last night, right before dark, I looked out the kitchen window and there she was with a fawn that wasn't more than a few hours old.  It was too dark to take photos, but this morning, they were still here.

How sweet is this little guy?  Look at all those spots!



 

I didn't think it could get much better, but this afternoon while working in my studio I glanced out the window and saw mama with not one, but TWO little ones!




 I am officially on cuteness overload!

She must have had the other one hidden this morning.  Does will hide their twins in separate locations to improve their odds of survival.  A predator might find one, but probably won't find both.  These little ones are especially vulnerable for the next few days while they gain strength and get their legs under control. 

Please keep fingers crossed and think good thoughts or say a little prayer that they get through this next week.  If they can do that, they'll be well on their way towards growing up and having their own babies in a couple of years.

To be able to observe their first few days and weeks of life, I am happy to give up my flower beds!




9 comments:

  1. They are adorable! I love all the pictures.
    And is it just me or does it seem the doe was laughing at you in the second picture? "It's my secret, you'll just have to wait!" ;-)

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    1. That was my impression as well, Cat. It was like, "Sorry, human, you don't get to be in control of everything" followed by evil laughter. She got me good too!

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  2. Oh my goodness, twins! I LOVE fawns, they are the most adorable little itty bitties. :) These are great shots Dawn. Have fun observing them in the days ahead!

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    1. Thank you so much, Jeanne! So good to "see" you - it's been way too long!

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  3. Dawn, when animals choose you and your property as their safe spot during their most vulnerable time, that makes you super special! I hope you know that! Keep the adorable pics coming, we can never get enough of those!

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    1. What a nice sentiment, Karin. I love that thought!

      My camera is never far from reach - not with these little sweeties around!

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  4. (from Dana) - Very special! The pics and explanations are great. You truly are blessed to be able to witness all of this. Flowers are overrated anyhow - but, keep the soil moist for Mama! Oh yea - you forgot 'the rare Bob Cat'!

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    1. Dana, I am thankful everyday for being able to live in this special place. Right the bobcat - I forgot about it! In the 23 years we've lived here we've only seen one and that was the day we moved in. A welcoming committee, perhaps?

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  5. P.S. I decided that if I really want to have flowers I'll grow them in pots on the deck. I don't think the deer will come up there!

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