As an avid whitetail hunter for 45 years, and an outdoor writer/editor for the past 25, I thought I had a pretty good understanding of whitetail biology and behavior, but I must admit the 7-minute YouTube video below humbled me.

The video host is National Deer Association Chief Conservation Officer (and wildlife biologist) Kip Adams, and he discusses many interesting topics related to whitetail fawns. He dispels one common myth — that to avoid predators, newborn fawns have no scent — and reveals a fawn survival act performed by whitetail mothers that is nothing short of shocking. I won’t spoil it; you’ll have to check out the video.

Throughout much of the Midwest, whitetail fawns are born in late May and early June; whitetail gestation period is about 200 days. If you find a fawn, leave it alone. (Click here for article showcasing a video of what NOT to do if you encounter a fawn.) 

I appreciate Adams setting me straight when it comes to whitetail fawns. Watch and learn.