With the arrival of spring, flowers and wildlife are making appearances again across Monterey County, as well as baby animals which many have seen passing by in walks and drives in the area.

However, the Monterey County SPCA is urging residents not to mistake newborn wildlife for orphans in need of rescue.

Every year, the SPCA Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center says they receive a wave of fawns brought in by well-meaning people who assume the babies have been left behind. But more often than not, these fawns were right where their mothers left them.

“Fawns are supposed to be alone most of the time,” the SPCA explained in a recent press release. “Mother deer hide their babies during the day and only return during dawn and dusk. It’s their natural survival strategy.”

A fawn curled up quietly, lying low to the ground, is likely just waiting for its mom to return. In fact, the mother is probably nearby — watching.

There are a few clear signs that a fawn may actually need help:

• Labored breathing

• Vocalizing and wandering for over an hour

• Blood or visible injuries

• Lying on its side instead of in a curled position

• A confirmed deceased mother nearby

If any of these red flags are present, the SPCA says do not intervene on your own. Instead, call the SPCA Wildlife Center at (831) 264-5427. Trained technicians will assess the situation and provide next steps.

Fawns are extremely sensitive to stress, and just one day of human handling or an incorrect diet can be fatal.

“Even when people mean well, that stress can do irreparable damage,” the SPCA wrote. “Bringing a fawn into your home can kill it.”

Residents are encouraged to observe quietly from a distance and keep dogs far away. If left undisturbed, the mother deer will almost always return.

To learn more or support local wildlife rescue efforts, visit www.SPCAmc.org.