What is a key sign of a sick deer?

A key sign of a sick deer is extreme lethargy or abnormal behavior. When a deer is not feeling well, it often exhibits noticeable changes in its activity levels. Healthy deer are typically alert and responsive to their environment, exhibiting natural behaviors such as foraging, grooming, and social interactions. However, a sick deer may become unusually lethargic, showing little interest in food or socializing with other deer. Additionally, the normal alertness that deer exhibit is replaced by a lack of responsiveness or unusual behaviors that deviate from their typical patterns.

This observation is critical for hunters and wildlife observers, as recognizing these signs can help in understanding wildlife health and ensuring proper management practices. The other choices – like bright eyes and alertness, heavy grooming of fur, or increased vocalization – do not indicate illness and can be typical of healthy deer, making it essential to recognize the specific symptoms of illness for the well-being of wildlife.