Written By: Jesse Stay – IL Land Broker and IA & MO Land Agent.

Baling hay in June is a busy time across the Midwest. But while you’re working to get clean hay on the ground, young wildlife may be bedding down in the same fields.

Whitetail fawns are often born in late May and early June. They stay hidden in tall grass, lying still and relying on their spotted coats for cover. Wild turkey hens nest directly on the ground and are often sitting on eggs or caring for small poults this time of year.

That means the same hayfields you’re mowing could be home to newborn wildlife, and they don’t always have time to move.

Why It Matters

As landowners and stewards, part of our job is protecting the land and the wildlife that lives on it. Accidental harm to fawns or turkey nests during hay cutting is preventable with just a few small changes.

Tips for Safe Hay Cutting in June

  • Mow from the center out. This gives animals a better chance to escape as you work.

  • Keep an eye out for movement. Flattened grass, trails, or sudden movement can signal a bedded fawn or turkey nest.

  • Walk the field first if you can. A quick scan, especially in known bedding areas, can save lives.

  • Talk with your neighbors. They might know where fawns or nesting hens have been spotted.

What Land Stewardship Really Means

Good land management goes beyond productivity. It means balancing use with care. You can still get your hay crop in while taking steps to protect the next generation of deer and turkeys.

June is for hay, but it’s also for being mindful. A little awareness in the field helps make sure your land continues to support wildlife year after year.

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