Ask The Biologist

We’re Having Twins!

We’re Having Twins!

By Bob Humphrey

If does could talk, you’d hear that a lot.

QUESTION: I live in Massachusetts, south of Boston and just north of Cape Cod. I think it was about May when a doe came out of my backyard woods followed by two tiny babies. I was so excited. It looked like the same doe from last year when she had just one fawn. Later, on July 22nd, another doe came out with triplets. It was amazing! However, the research I am finding is that multiple births are not that unusual and that it reflects a healthy habitat. Any comments you want to share are welcome.

ANSWER: I’m not sure there’s a question there, but if so, you seem to have answered it. Multiple fawns are not at all uncommon. While it varies, overall average “litter” size is just under two. Most adult does give birth to twins.

According to the National Deer Association, as many as 15 to 20% of does bear triplets when deer numbers are in balance with high-quality habitat. Singlets are more common with younger does.

It’s important to keep in mind that survival rates also vary depending on things like food quality and quantity, habitat (cover) and predator density. While a doe might have one, two or even three fawns in June, she’ll often have fewer remaining with her come fall.

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