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June 27, 2024
CENTRAL POINT, Ore – Doe deer are very protective of their fawns and can be aggressive towards nearby people and pets. ODFW has received recent reports of does attacking dogs in Jackson and Josephine counties.
In most of these reports, people walking their dogs did not avoid close contact with does. ODFW encourages people to keep away from doe deer this summer and keep dogs leashed and under control.
"If you're out walking in your neighborhood or property and see a doe deer, the safe bet is to avoid it and not approach it or walk near it," Chris Shelton, ODFW wildlife biologists advises. "In our area, does give birth through July so it's best to do this throughout the summer as people have gotten hurt and smaller dogs killed by does in the past."
Does and bucks can also become aggressive any time of year when they are being fed.
ODFW's Shelton recommends these tips to keep you and your pets safe:
- Don't approach deer – keep your distance.
- Keep dogs leashed and away from deer.
- Keep pets inside when deer are in your yard.
- Don't intentionally feed deer. Deer that are familiar with people can become aggressive.
- Don't pick up fawns or get near them. Does may hide their fawn and leave for hours (sometimes all day) to forage and then return to feed their young. It is illegal to remove wildlife from the wild under Oregon wildlife laws (ORS 497.308).
- Stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk. Be aware of your surroundings and areas where deer may be.
Report any aggressive deer behavior to ODFW's Central Point office, 541-857-2405.
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