Pregnant deer left for dead after being struck by vehicle in hit-and-run in Aberdeenshire

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A heavily pregnant deer had to be put down after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run in Aberdeenshire.

New Arc Wildlife Rescue said the roe doe, which was with child, had to be euthanised after being “left to suffer” on the road between Maud and Old Deer on Friday.

They said a couple called them and stayed with her until they arrived, keeping the deer and other road users safe.

However, due to the severity of the injuries, she was put down.

A pregnant roe doe was struck and left to suffer on the road between Maud and Old Deer. New Arc Wildlife Rescue

Wildlife rescue said euthanising pregnant or lactating animals is “always one of the most difficult parts of our work” even when we it is the kindest and only possible outcome.

The group urged drivers who may hit a deer to pull over safely, make a note of the exact location and any nearby landmarks and call the nearest wildlife rescue centre as soon as possible.

However, if the deer, alive or dead, poses a danger to other road users, members of the public are urged to contact the police on 101.

New Arc Wildlife Rescue posted on Facebook: “Early this morning, a heavily pregnant roe doe was struck and left to suffer on the road between Maud and Old Deer.

“We were alerted by multiple members of the public who saw her in distress on their way to work.

“Our sincere thanks go to the kind couple who also called and stayed with her until we arrived, keeping both the deer and other road users safe.

“Tragically, due to the severity of her injuries, the only option was to end her suffering. Euthanising pregnant or lactating animals is always one of the most difficult parts of our work, even when we know it’s the kindest and only possible outcome.

“Collisions with deer can happen in an instant and are often unavoidable. But choosing to make a phone call afterwards is always within your control. That call can make all the difference.”