Community urged to stop feeding ‘Moochy’ the wild fawn

A wild fawn nicknamed “Moochy” has been making appearances at a grocery store parking lot in Haliburton Ont. ( Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary)

A wild fawn nicknamed “Moochy” has been making appearances at a grocery store parking lot in Haliburton, captivating shoppers with his adorableness.

While the deer’s appearance has drawn plenty of attention, wildlife experts are warning that the situation is creating a problem for the animal.

Over the past few months, the young deer has become accustomed to begging for food, a habit that specialists say is detrimental to his development. According to experts from the Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary in Minden, the deer likely lost his mother but remains part of a local herd that likes to visit the area.

“Being young and still rather naïve, he needs to develop a fear of humans and human activity,” said a representative from the Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary. “The only course of action to save him from being hit by a vehicle and to encourage natural behavior is to aggressively shoo him away.”

Advice from wildlife experts:

Wildlife experts are asking residents to take steps to discourage the deer’s behavior. This includes using loud noises, clapping, stomping, and making movements to scare him off. The goal is to teach the deer to avoid human interactions altogether, allowing him reabsorb into his natural environment.

“It’s tough love, but it works,” one member explained. “By scaring him away and not feeding him, we can help him become a wild deer again.”

Bringing the deer into care at a wildlife sanctuary, would only reinforce his dependence on humans.

Penalties for feeding deer:

Residents are also reminded that feeding deer within the Town of Haliburton is illegal under a municipal by-law. Those caught feeding deer can face a $150 fine. Wildlife experts and local authorities are working to spread awareness about the harmful effects of feeding wild animals.

Community efforts:

“Kindness can sometimes do more harm than good,” the spokesperson noted. “Feeding and petting this deer may seem compassionate, but it’s actually creating a dangerous situation for him and for people.”

The Haliburton community is being asked to spread the message and educate others about the importance of maintaining wildlife boundaries.