Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesman Joe Lewandowski said someone picked up a fawn in La Plata Canyon that was “dropped,” a term for when a mother hides its young and goes to forage.
The individual, who Lewandowski said remains unknown, took the baby deer to the animal shelter in Durango.
“If anyone picks up a fawn, it’s pretty much a death sentence for that animal,” Lewandowski said. “Fawns can’t be rehabilitated.”
Lewandowski said the incident is just the latest, and worst case scenario, of people negligently interacting with wildlife.
On Sunday, he said people were attempting to take selfies with a fawn near the Smiley Building at 1309 East Third Avenue, and someone even picked up the animal.
Fortunately, in that instance, Lewandowski said the spectators didn’t move the fawn from its drop spot. Wildlife officers were able to clear the area, and eventually the fawn’s mother came back.
“Also over the weekend we had a report of people feeding deer near the fish hatchery,” Lewandowski said. “Which, again, is another really stupid thing to do.”
Lewandowski said wild animals are best left alone, and if someone has the urge to photograph it, take the photo and leave.
“This happens every year,” he said. “People need to remember these are wild animals even though they live in town.
“These animals are fine by themselves. Just leave them alone.”
If people are concerned about a fawn or any other wildlife, Lewandowski said to call CPW at 970-247-0855.