She has kept me waiting, but finally the pregnant roe deer I have been keeping an eye on has had her fawn (or kid, whichever you prefer).
They usually give birth any time between mid-May to mid-June, so she was taking it to the limit. I had seen her the day before; at least I assumed it was her, as she was no longer looking pregnant, so I couldn’t be sure as there was no fawn in sight. The following morning I saw her again, initially on her own, but then later, when I saw her again I thought there was something else. Looking through my long camera lens I noticed there was definitely something – then there was a little movement and I realised that underneath her was a very small fawn.
I watched, from a distance, as she slowly moved and the fawn followed. It really was the smallest little thing. I’m guessing it must have only been a few days old. As they continued to move away I left them alone. I hope I do get to see them closer, but I am also conscious of not spooking them. The last thing I’d want is for the fawn to be in any danger, because the mother runs and leaves her exposed.
I have seen the mother again, but not the fawn. She will be leaving it hidden, not too far away, whilst she goes on a little wander to eat. Hopefully I’ll see them moving around together more when the fawn is a little older and the mother feels they’re not in as much danger.
How very lovely. So precious.