Deer With Cone On Neck Spotted Around Roxborough

ROXBOROUGH, PHILADELPHIA — A deer with a cone on its neck has been spotted in and around Roxborough, and a local rescue group is urging the public to leave the deer be.

GoodBoy Dog Recovery out of Delaware County said it has receiving numerous tips about the deer, and offered advice after consulting with wildlife experts.

"At this time, the recommendation is to leave her alone," the group said. "While it looks alarming, experts advise that it is very likely the deer will be able to work this collar off on her own. As she moves through her environment, the cone will be knocked against brush, trees, and other obstacles, which can loosen it. In colder temperatures, the plastic can also become more brittle, increasing the likelihood that it will crack or break free, or loosen enough for her to shake it off."

The group said the deer is able to drink and eat while the cone is on its neck, and that trying to intervene poses a risk to its health.

GoodBoy Dog Recovery also advised against contacting the Pennsylvania Game Commission due to the deer potentially being euthanized.

Additionally, they said not to share the deer's location.

"Sharing her location increases stress, crowds, and the chance of a harmful outcome," they said. "The best thing you can do right now is not post about this deer at all. Monitoring quietly and allowing wildlife experts to guide decisions gives her the best chance."

While the group said seeing the deer with a cone on its neck can be distressing, they said "caring sometimes means doing less, not more — and trusting the experts who work with wildlife every day."