Actually, a deer will make it, or not make it, 100% of the time. (% live + % dead = 100%)

In Southern Iowa, where I hunt, winter weather related mortality is not a significant factor. Way more than 90% probably survive the average winter. Fawns without spots do not have much trouble. Fawns with spot have more trouble but may survive.

I'll say it again, I shoot fawns. I expect those hunting with me to shoot antlerless deer also. The state, and the land owner (my cousin) both want numbers reduced. Doe tags are cheap, and party hunting is legal, so this does not keep anyone in my party from shooting a trophy if given the chance. I am the one in my party who is responsible to my cousin. I do prefer that small bucks and buttons be given a pass but I do not worry too much about buttons.

I have a bit of a problem with those who will not shoot a fawn IF THEY HUNT IN AN AREA THAT HAS A SURPLUS OF DEER. Who can explain this Bambi loving attitude to me. Is a fawn not a deer? If you can only get one tag, that is one thing, but c'mon, meat is meat, and fawn meat is the best.

I was buying some snacks to carry in the field and had a Qwik Trip clerk ask me, "You wouldn't shoot Bambi would you?" I answered, "I would shoot Bambi AND Bambi's mother and little sister too."

I would really like to know why some of you will not shoot fawns. There are some good reasons but "I would never shoot a fawn." makes you sound like a card carrying PETA lurker who is sand bagging us.

Just think, if you shoot a fawn, there is a 100% chance that it will not be winter kill.


Bob