Deep in the heart of Michigan, at Deer Tracks Junction, an unlikely story unfolds. Dragon, a newborn fawn with a unique appearance, has found a loving home after being abandoned by his mother. This heartwarming tale highlights the challenges faced by animals with rare traits in the wild, and the compassion that can be found in unexpected places.
White-faced fawn, world’s rarest was rejected by her mom, found new life
Born different: A white face in a brown world
Dragon’s journey began with a difference. Unlike his brown-faced siblings, he was born with a striking white face, an anomaly in the whitetail Piebald deer population. Hilary Powell, owner of Deer Tracks Junction and Dragon’s surrogate mother, believes this unique characteristic led to his abandonment.
“In the wild, they’re very, very rare,” Powell explains. White coloring in deer populations can make them stand out, attracting predators and putting them at risk. Dragon’s mother, Bunny, likely saw this as a disadvantage for survival.
Born different: A white face in a brown world
A pink nose and a harsh reality
Dragon’s distinctiveness extends beyond his white face. He possesses bright blue eyes and a pink nose, further setting him apart. This seemingly harmless trait, according to Powell, is a liability in the wild. The pink nose, highly sensitive to sunlight, could lead to sunburn, making him vulnerable and hindering his ability to forage for food.
Faced with these challenges, Dragon’s mother made a difficult decision, one driven by the harsh realities of survival in the wild. She instinctively knew her white-faced fawn would struggle, increasing the risk for both of them.
A pink nose and a harsh reality
From abandonment to love: A new beginning
Fortunately, Dragon’s story doesn’t end in tragedy. He found a safe haven at Deer Tracks Junction. The Powell family took him in, providing the love and care he desperately needed. With bottle-feeding and constant attention, Dragon is thriving. Soon, he will be strong enough to interact with visitors and even participate in “deer games” at the farm.
From abandonment to love: A new beginning
Dragon’s story serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between an animal’s natural instincts and the unexpected kindness that can exist in our world. While his mother’s decision was a harsh reality, it ultimately led him to a place of love and safety. In the care of the Powell family, Dragon’s future looks bright, filled with opportunities to flourish despite his unique appearance.
