| The Virginia whitetail deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is Radnor Lake's
largest mammal. Although human clearing of forest for fields and lawns
plus predator elimination has created a booming deer population, the
numbers at Radnor Lake still appear in synch with the natural flow
of nature. Resident deer are healthy even in winter, and only old
deer appear physically stressed. In the absence of expatriated, or
removed, predators such as wolves, bear, and cougar, the coyote now
fills a welcome niche by removing the weaker deer. This strengthens
the gene pool as nature intended. In the spring a doe usually leaves
young ones hidden while she browses nearby. Do not be alarmed if you
see a fawn by itself, it is not orphaned. Just enjoy the experience! |
