Wildlife Wednesday 10/23/2024

Slow down for wildlife! 

It’s #WildlifeWednesday and the time of year when our state mammal, the white-tailed deer, is most active. As a result it is also the time of year when vehicle collisions with the large hoofstock most frequently occur.

The breeding season, or rut, takes place in Ohio from mid-October through December, with the peak occurring in early November. During this time both bucks and does have increased hormone levels, are very active, and are less cautious than usual, often running blindly across roadways. Oh, deer.

Some driving tips during this season include:

-Avoid going over the speed limit and always wear a seatbelt

-Stay alert and aware of the conditions alongside the road

-Use extra caution near deer crossing signs as these notices are intentionally placed in areas of high deer density

-If you spot a deer on the road ahead, slow down as there likely are more following

-If a deer runs in front of your vehicle, brake but do not swerve, as swerving can result in loss of control and increased chances of damage and injury

-Travel with extra care during dusk and dawn, when deer tend to be at their most active

-Use the vehicle’s high beam bright lights when there is no oncoming traffic to make spotting deer in the dark easier

These practices can keep you safe to enjoy observing interesting deer behavior such as antler rubbing, scraping, sparring, and chasing during the rut season. Give wildlife a brake!