One leg lost, but mother deer adopts two orphaned fawns

In Mercer's Post, Maine, a remarkable story of maternal devotion is unfolding. A mother deer, known locally as 'Tripod' due to a missing front leg lost to a hunter's bullet in November 2024, has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and love.

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This resilient doe, who lost a leg a few years ago during hunting season, is a shining example of survival and love. Thanks to the support and care of local residents, the doe is doing well and is full of life.

Amateur wildlife photographer Tanya Decatur first shared Tripod's story on Facebook, capturing images of the three-legged doe nursing her fawn, with two other fawns nearby. Decatur described the deer as a "shining example of survival and love," noting that despite the harsh realities of nature, including losing a fawn the previous year, Tripod gave birth again this spring.

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Last year, she lost her fawn, showing the harsh reality of nature, but this year she gave birth to another fawn and adopted two orphaned fawns, showing strong maternal love.

What has particularly touched the community is Tripod's adoption of two orphaned fawns. Decatur believes these fawns lost their mother to a road accident in mid-June. The deer now frequents the vicinity of human homes, a behavior likely adopted to evade predators such as coyotes and lynx. Decatur herself has witnessed Tripod resting in her pasture alongside her donkeys and horses.

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She was limping, but running incredibly fast.

To ensure the safety of this unique deer family, residents are considering installing "deer crossing" signs in the area. Tripod's story has become a powerful symbol of maternal instinct and the will to survive against all odds, resonating deeply with those who have witnessed her remarkable journey.

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I am relieved every time I see them that they are not hurt and are still safe.