MNRF tranquilize Carrot the deer in Kenora, Ont., remove arrow in its head

A deer in Kenora, Ont., which was struck by an arrow, has had the black carbon-fibre arrow removed from its head.

The deer, which is named Carrot by a homeowner in Kenora, was shot around December 9 with the arrow.

Michelle Nowak, an outreach specialist with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) said Carrot was tranquilized on Thursday afternoon.

"MNRF Staff assisted by the OPP attempted to chemically immobilize the deer and remove the arrow protruding on both ends," she said.

"The deer was tranquilized on the afternoon of December 17 and the entire arrow was removed," Nowak said in a statement. "No blood was noted when the arrow was taken out.  The deer was given an injection of antibiotics in addition to a topical application of antibiotics at the wound site. Ear tags were attached to the deer as is required when an animal is tranquilized."

Nowak said MNRF staff remained on site until the deer was up on its feet, and then Carrot travelled to a wooded area until it bedded for the night. As of 6 a.m. on Friday, Carrot left the site, the MNRF said, with the deer not being seen since.

"We remain cautiously optimistic that the deer will make a full recovery," Nowak said in a statement.

Nowak said efforts were also made on Wednesday to capture the deer, but were unsuccessful. Carrot, although being tranquilized, was not staying in one location, and kept moving around, making it impossible for MNRF staff to get close to the deer.

Nowak said the MNRF is investigating the incident, noting the Kenora office has, "received several calls about an injured deer with an arrow in its head in downtown Kenora."

"MNRF Conservation Officers are aware of this matter, and have been in contact with the OPP."

Anybody with information on how the deer was struck with the arrow can contact the MNRF tip line at 1-877-847-7667 (877-TIPS-MNR).