Keep the Key Deer Healthy

From Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Complex:

Keep the Key Deer Healthy

Human fed deer tend to congregate in high numbers in urbanized areas, increasing their risk of contracting and spreading disease. 

Feeding prevents them from foraging naturally and getting the nutrition they need, attracts them into harm’s way when crossing roadways, and leads them to develop bad habits like foraging in garbage, where they can ingest, or be impaled or entangled by dangerous items which can cause illness, infection, and/or death.

Key deer are adapted to surviving on their own with hundreds of native plants on their menu and fresh water throughout their habitats.

To help keep Key deer healthy it's in their best interest to
refrain from feeding and watering them; keep environments clear of garbage and dangerous objects; and drive slowly.

Medicating deer to protect them from screwworm infestation is a temporary lifesaving effort, which should not be confused with feeding.

Photo: USFWS/Diane Borden-Billiot 




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