There is no question they can survive on their own by early bow season.

However, they are very inexperienced to the way of the woods and are vulnerable to predators, especially other hunters without mom. Not saying that in itself is wrong, but it is fact.

Jeff, I am not doubting you, but I am surprised that you've not had fawns hang around a downed doe as you approach/and or field dress. Again, not saying it is wrong, but this happens frequently.

I don't know what happens to an orphan fawn if orphaned in the first couple of months, but if orphaned by the time deer season rolls around, that deer is on his/her own unless if finds another fawn to team/pair up. Deer have a distinct pecking order and a doe with fawns of her own will force the orphan to keep its distance.

But so is the way of nature. I have no problem shooting one.