The South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Texas Game Wardens told KLBK and EverythingLubbock.com that they’ve received more deer sighting reports across the South Plains in the past couple of weeks.
“I got several calls in the morning saying there were deer at Melonie Park,” South Plains Rehabilitation Center’s Gail Barnes said. “I told the caller, I said just enjoy it. Don’t try to take a picture, don’t chase it, don’t try to capture it.”
Barnes described the animal as a mule deer buck. She added the area will begin to see more of this kind because of mating season.
“It was in the rut, what we call the rut, which means it’s looking for a mate,” Barnes said. “When they’re in the rut looking for a mate they can be very dangerous. They can charge you. Their hooves are very dangerous. If you go approach them, not only can you get hurt, you can cause an accident if they run out into traffic and you be liable.”
Texas Tech Professor Philip Gipson said these buck tend to be distracted while they are in the rut. He added that they get so focused on finding a doe to breed with, that their sleep and diet might be compromised. Therefore, it’s important to be weary of them during this season.
If a deer approaches, Barnes said the best option to take would be to leave the area slowly and call their office for help.
“Do not approach, do not touch wildlife,” Barnes said. “If it’s truly injured, call the wildlife center. Call animal control and we will work together and we will help that wildlife.”
The Rehab Center can be contacted at 806-799-2142.
