Summertime is a magical season for many reasons, but one of the most special moments for me is observing the growth of fawns on my property. Every summer, I am privileged to witness these tiny creatures transform into majestic adult deer. It is a joy to see their innocence and curiosity as they explore their surroundings, and to watch them grow in strength and grace.
I was standing near the main gate that opens to my property. The Fawn and a Doe were feeding near the driveway. When the Doe saw me it fled into the nearby woods but the Fawn remained and continued feeding.
Fawns are born in late spring and are typically spotted by their distinctive white spots on their brown coats. They are small, with long legs and delicate features, and they move with an ease that is both graceful and charming. At this stage of their lives, they are completely dependent on their mothers for food and protection, but they are also naturally curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings.
As the summer months pass by, the fawns start to grow and mature. They become more confident in their movements, and their once-delicate frames become stronger and more muscular. Their coats change from a soft, downy fur to a thicker, more durable one, and their white spots start to fade.
As they grow into adult deer, they become more solitary creatures, and their interactions with their mothers and other deer become less frequent. They develop their own personalities and routines, and they become less and less reliant on the protection of their mothers. They are now magnificent creatures, with sleek, graceful bodies and powerful legs. They move with a quiet grace and an air of dignity that is truly breathtaking.
It is a privilege to watch the fawns grow into adult deer, and to be a part of their journey. It is a reminder of the natural cycle of life and the beauty and majesty of the wildlife that surrounds us. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors, observing the growth of fawns is an experience that should not be missed.
So, if you have the opportunity to spend some time in nature this summer, take a moment to look for the fawns and watch as they grow into adult deer. It is a truly special experience that you will never forget.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM (attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro)
Technical:
I was hand-holding my camera to photograph this Fawn.
- Location: Near the Ouachita National Forest (Arkansas)
- Date Taken: August 7, 2020
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f5.6
- Shutter speed: 1/1600 sec. (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 1000
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 400 mm