Adult Deer

Adult deer cases can be hard on the heart but there may still be hope! In New York State, it’s illegal to rehabilitate adult deer. While we wish this weren’t the case, we do understand why the law exists. Unlike fawns, adult deer already know the freedom of the wild, and trying to capture or confine them can be incredibly dangerous for them (and the rescuer!)

Even if they were sedated for transport, once they wake up in captivity, the intense stress and panic they experience can cause a condition called capture myopathy. It’s essentially a stress-induced muscle breakdown that affects the heart and other major organs, and unfortunately, it’s almost always fatal.

There are some rehab facilities with specialized resources to care for adult deer in recovery for a short amount of time, but sadly there are none in our area with the knowledge, or experience to do so safely.

That said, deer are some of the most resilient creatures! We’ve had fawns in our care recover from unimaginable injuries, and wild adult deer survive deep wounds, infections, and illness and go on to thrive! If the deer you’re seeing is injured but still mobile and getting around okay, the best and most compassionate thing is to let her be. But if she’s down and unable to stand or walk, the kindest (and unfortunately only) option is to call the DEC or local police to dispatch the deer.

While Rockland Wildlife can assist with the rescue and immediate stabilization of fawns, Rockland County currently does not have a New York State–licensed large mammal rehabilitator or facility (for species like white-tailed deer, black bears, or moose). The only wildlife rescue in our region that is legally permitted to rehabilitate and release white-tailed fawns is Animal Nation in Westchester County. They can be reached at 914-400-6014.