Gestation:
* Doe's pregnancy lasts around 200-205 days (about 7 months).
* She'll usually give birth in a secluded area, like dense brush or thick forest, to protect her fawns.
Birth:
* Doe typically gives birth to 1-3 fawns, called "twin" fawns even if there are more than two.
* Fawns are born with spots, which helps camouflage them in the undergrowth.
* They are born fully furred and able to stand shortly after birth, but they are very vulnerable for the first few weeks.
Motherhood:
* Doe spends almost all her time with her fawns, nursing them and keeping them safe.
* Fawns stay with their mother for several months, learning important survival skills like foraging and avoiding predators.
* Doe will lick her fawns clean, and the fawns will try to stay close and hide in the tall grass or brush.
Fawns and the "Scent of Safety":
* Fawns are born scentless, a crucial protection against predators like coyotes, foxes, and bears.
* This helps them blend in with the surrounding environment.
* The scent of the doe is very strong and will attract predators, so she'll spend time away from them to avoid attracting danger.
Growth and Development:
* Fawns grow quickly and lose their spots as they age.
* They will eventually learn to graze on their own, and eventually, they'll leave their mother to find their own territory.
Interesting Facts:
* Doe can become pregnant again a few weeks after giving birth!
* Fawns can sometimes be born with a rare white coloration, called "albino" deer.
The process of a doe giving birth and raising her fawns is truly a fascinating part of the natural world. It demonstrates the strong bond between mother and offspring and highlights the challenges and triumphs of survival in the wild.