Deer

There are five North American deer species:

  • White-tailed deer
  • Mule deer
  • Caribou
  • Elk
  • Moose

In Iowa, white-tailed deer are the most commonly seen, with the rare mule deer sighting.

DEER ARE DESTROYING MY GARDEN, HOW DO I DISCOURAGE THEM?

Deer are adaptable and opportunistic eaters. If hungry enough they will eat anything. Exclusion is the best option, but most people aren’t able to put up a 6 foot tall fence around their gardens or yards. Numerous barriers and repellents are available that may work, however, success with them may reduce, but not eliminate the damage caused.

I FOUND A FAWN IN MY YARD. HAS IT BEEN ABANDONED? WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Mother deer leave their young alone on purpose.  She will return to feed and check on it a few times a day, staying only a few minutes.  She is nearby, so leave the fawn alone.  Do not try to pick up or feed it.  A fawn’s best chance for survival is in the wild, with it’s mother.

However, if the fawn is clearly injured or near a dead adult doe, contact Team Mojo or another licensed wildlife rehabilitator for further advice.