06/11/2026
Oh deer, it looks like the Sylvan Lake detachment has a little visitor!
A couple of weeks ago, detachment staff were alerted to the presence of a baby deer that had decided the perfect place for a nap was under someone's tire in parking lot. Thankfully, the young fawn's mom was spotted nearby, so we knew that our little friend was likely safe and sound. Deer will often leave their young in a sheltered spot for short periods of time while they forage for food, and the fawn can survive with until mom returns.
Our little friend was eventually picked up by mom, and they moved along to wherever their next adventure is. If you spot what you believe to be an orphaned animal:
🦌 even if you have good intentions, DO NOT HANDLE the animal - this could put you and the animal at risk
🦌 wildlife mothers are very protective and will aggressively defend their young and can cause serious injury to people who approach their offspring
🦌 monitor the animal from a distance - if you do not see mom return after 24 hours, contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife office for advice on how to proceed
🦌 if you notice the animal is injured - do not touch it, leave it alone, and do not take it home to nurse it back to health
For more information about orphaned or injured wildlife, contact your local Fish and Wildlife office (toll-free 1-800-642-3800). Local wildlife rehabilitation groups are also a great resource - in our area, the Medicine River Wildlife Centre can be reached at 403-728-3467.
