Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

For how long should attempts be made to reunite a healthy fawn with its mother?

1. 24 hours

2. 48 hours

3. 72 hours

4. One week

The correct answer is: 72 hours

Attempts to reunite a healthy fawn with its mother should be made for a period of 72 hours. This time frame is significant because it allows for the possibility that the mother is still in the vicinity and may return to her fawn to continue the nurturing process. Fawns are often left alone by their mothers for extended periods, especially during the early stages of life, while the mother forages for food. During the first few days of a fawn's life, the mother may be nearby, but out of sight, as it is a common strategy for deer to minimize the chances of predation on their young. The 72-hour window provides a balance between giving the mother time to return and the need to intervene if the fawn's health becomes a concern during that time. Longer attempts to reunite may not be warranted and could lead to situations where the fawn's health is compromised or where human intervention is necessary if the mother is not returning, which generally should be a last resort.