"The fawn has been abandoned!"

No it hasn't. This is actually a protective strategy against predators. 

Deer are experts at hiding their young to protect them from predators. Female deer, called does, intentionally leave their fawns alone for extended periods after giving birth. As they have little scent and a camouflaged coat they can stay hidden and motionless until its mother returns which she does a few times a day to quickly nurse before leaving again.

If you encounter a fawn lying alone, the best thing is to leave it alone and keep your distance.

Fawns should never be touched or moved, as this can cause the doe to reject her baby due to the transferred human scent. Do not hang around in the area, as this may deter the doe from returning. As fawns get older and more mobile after 2-4 weeks, they will begin following their mothers. Drivers should be cautious  during fawning season, especially around dawn and dusk. 

Keep an eye out, when one deer crosses the road, watch for others to potentially follow including hard-to-see fawns.

"When would I need to contact wildlife professionals?"

Contact the conservation service or wildlife rehabilitators if the fawn is clearly injured, wandering and vocalizing constantly, or if you know the mother is deceased. 

In conflict situations, our high profile wildlife team are here to help.