Potter Park Welcome First Tufted Deer Fawn

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: October 2, 2021 11:29 am

A female tufted deer fawn born on September 29th stands in its enclosure at the Potter Park Zoo in Lansing Michigan

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

Potter Park Zoo have celebrated the arrival of a tufted deer fawn to parents Lucy and Dezi. The health female fawn was born on Wednesday September 29th.

Lucy and Dezi were brought together at the Potter Park Zoo in the summer of 2019 when Lucy made the move from Zoo Tampa in Florida.

This is the first time that tufted deer have been bred at the Potter Park Zoo.

A female tufted deer fawn born on September 29th with mom in its enclosure at the Potter Park Zoo in Lansing Michigan

Photo Credit: SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Lucy and Dezi were recommended to breed by the Tufted Deer Species Survival Plan (SSP). This is a cooperative program with zoos working together to increase the population of a species in managed care while maintained genetic diversity.

The species is considered underrepresented in American zoos making increasing their population a priority for zoos holding them.

Potter Park Zoo’s director of Animal Health, Dr. Ronan Eustace performed a quick examination on the fawn and confirmed it is healthy with a weight of 1.9kg (3.5lbs).

“The fawn was on her feet within hours after birth, and has been cautiously exploring her exhibit since” said Animal Care Supervisor Pat Fountain. “For a newborn, she is very brave and inquisitive”.

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Guests visiting the Potter Park Zoo may see the fawn which is now on exhibit with mom, Lucy. It is shy and may be hard to spot for the first few months. A name for the fawn will be decided soon and announced on the zoo’s social media.

Tufted deer fawns are born with white spots which will gradually vanish over six months. Females hid the baby during the day.

They are native to forests in China where they are threatened through habitat loss and capture for their hide.

Learn more about the Potter Park Zoo on their website – Potter Park Zoo