What to do if you find an injured deer

COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) — A strange photo of a deer posted on social media sparked concern from the online community and raised a larger question about when humans should intervene to help wildlife.

The image showed a whitetail doe with a red metal object seemingly stuck to its body next to a fawn. The post prompted dozens of comments, many suggesting contacting wildlife agencies for assistance and expressing fear for both animals.

According to the Ohio Division of Wildlife, little can be done for a wild animal in this situation. Wildlife Management Supervisor Gary Comer explained that the agency does not have the resources to safely capture a deer without risking the animal’s life, and the stress of capture can cause an animal to go into shock or even die.

Comer also highlighted the potential danger of the deer being forced into high-traffic areas if approached by humans. Such an event would increase the risk of accidents and pose a serious safety hazard to drivers and pedestrians.

Despite the obstruction, Comer noted that there were reassuring signs the animal was managing well.

“The good news is that the adult doe looks to be in good health and is feeding her fawn,” Comer wrote in an email to NBC4. “Her ears are upright and [her] body condition is good. Both signs that would lead me to take no action at this time.”

Comer added that in many cases, foreign objects become dislodged naturally over time, which is what happened in this case.

A follow-up post from a different person in the neighborhood group showed a picture of someone holding the same red metal object that had apparently fallen off the animal.

“Found this in my yard last night,” the author wrote in the caption. “The poor deer is finally free from this, I have no idea what it is though?!?!”

Several commenters identified it as part of a birdfeeder with a string attached, in which the doe became entangled.

Additionally, Comer reminded the public to keep outdoor areas clear of potential hazards for wildlife and to avoid intentionally feeding animals, except for feeding birds from “elevated platforms.” This practice helps reduce the risk of similar incidents while safely supporting local wildlife populations.

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