Seasonal Deer Movement Raises Risk of Vehicle Collisions

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Seasonal Deer Movement Raises Risk of Vehicle Collisions
ANNAPOLIS — Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife & Heritage Service advises motorists to be especially alert for deer crossing roads and highways during October and November.

Motorists should always be vigilant for deer and other animals crossing in front of them, but early Fall is a time period of elevated white-tailed deer movement. Yearling bucks seek out new home ranges that will last their lifespan. Adult bucks and does, searching for mates, increase their movements within their established home range. After mating, the adult buck continues his pursuit of additional receptive does. Young male deer born this past May and June can be separated from their mother as a result of this breeding behavior.

This reproductive induced deer movement means that deer will be more likely to cross highways during October and November. Motorists need to heighten their awareness for the potential of deer crossing the road in front of them. DNR offers the Maryland motorists the following tips to improve the odds of avoiding a deer and vehicle collision:

A deer standing near the road may suddenly leap onto the road. Slow down and sound your horn to scare the deer away from the road.

If you see a deer crossing the road ahead, slow down and scan for more deer. Deer travel in groups; others may be nearby, but out of view.

Slow down and brake to avoid hitting a deer, but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a driver to lose control and strike another vehicle. Drivers my lose control of their vehicle, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike a tree or roll over. The Center for Disease Control reports that one half of motorist fatalities related to deer strikes result from the driver swerving to avoid the deer.

Throughout the year, increase your awareness for deer in the early morning hours and late afternoon hours. Deer commonly move between daytime resting areas to evening feeding locations.

Be more alert in areas of deer-crossing highway signs. These warning signs indicate locations of frequent deer crossings.

Maryland’s autumn season provides excellent weather for visiting Maryland’s beautiful outdoors. Maryland’s woodlands become a brilliant color palette of oranges, yellows, reds and greens. Many animals such as deer, waterfowl and bears increase their movements that make them more visible. Wildlife behavior in the fall enhances bird watching, wildlife photography and hunting. Visit your favorite Maryland outdoor recreational areas or explore new ones, but be extra wary of deer along Maryland’s roads and highways.
October 3, 2005
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 446,000 acres of public lands and 18,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 11 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov