Lifestyles

Deer-vehicle collisions peak in the fall

While white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) provide abundant recreation opportunities for hunters and wildlife watchers, they can unfortunately cost us millions of dollars every year through deer-vehicle collisions. Now is the time when deer are on the move and extra caution is advised when out on the roadways.

So what is happening during October and especially November that increases deer collisions? Some may think that hunting causes an increase in deer movement, particularly across roads and highways (Ohio's deer hunting season runs from Sept. 26 – Jan. 12), but this isn't always the case. For example, movements of antlered deer in Pennsylvania wearing GPS radio collars were tracked during the weeks before, during, and after muzzleloader and firearms seasons and there were no changes in activity patterns due to hunting season. Deer movement due to hunting depends on the amount of hunting pressure, and while intense pressure can cause an increase in deer activity, typically deer stay within their normal home ranges. The truth is, deer are on the move at this time of year for multiple reasons, both natural and human-related.

Possibly the biggest reason for the increase in deer movement is the breeding season (rut), which takes place October-December. In November, deer are entering the peak of their breeding season. Males are actively searching for mates, which frequently brings them across roadways. The total distance a single deer moves during a 24-hour period varies from 1-4 miles, but that distance is increased dramatically in males during the breeding season. While some female deer may take a brief breeding excursion outside their normal range in search of a mate, the majority stay put and don't travel more than normal during the breeding season.

Deer also need to increase their food consumption this time of year. Depending on available food resources in their home range (such as acorns and other hard mast), deer may have to travel further to find enough food, which can lead to additional travel across roadways.

Daylight saving time plays a role in motorists encountering deer on the roadways. The shorter days and longer nights force commuters onto the roads at dawn and dusk – the same times deer are most active.

What can drivers do to remain safe and decrease their chances of an accident?

• Take special precautions to avoid collisions, especially at dawn and after sunset, and during the hours of 5 p.m.-1 a.m. and 5 a.m.-8 a.m. Be extra careful throughout November, when the number of accidents peaks.

• Breeding season for deer is October to December, and although most accidents occur in October and November, remain vigilant through December.

• When there is one deer, there are often more. If one deer crosses the road, slow down!

• If a deer runs in front of your vehicle, brake firmly but try not to swerve. Swerving can cause the loss of control of your vehicle, which can lead to more damage to you and your car.

• Pay special attention to deer crossing signs. They are there for a reason -- to alert you of a high deer density area.

• What about the hood-mounted deer whistles and ultrasonic devices designed to scare away deer? Skip the purchase -- wildlife biologists have found no evidence these devices work.

• Finally, and possibly most important -- because a deer-vehicle collision cannot always be avoided no matter how vigilant you are -- wear your seat belt.