Watch for Deer while Driving Our Roadways

It may be spring, but Natural Resources Minister Ernest Fage is still advising motorists to drive with care. Although snow conditions are no longer a concern, the possibility of hitting a deer on our roads increases significantly this time of year.

“Over the years, the department’s reports show that from late May to early July, the number of deer hit on highways and secondary roads in Nova Scotia increases sharply,” said the minister. “It is the time of year when does begin to travel more as their fawns become more mobile. Deer are also being harassed by black flies and mosquitos which would in part account for their increased and unpredictable movement.”

Particular attention should be paid at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active. However, caution is warranted regardless of the time of day.

“If you see a deer crossing the highway or standing on the roadside, slow down,” said Mr. Fage. “It is not only the deer you first see, but others following that are often hit.

Deer numbers become high in populated and agricultural areas where hunting is restricted, and therefore the possibility of hitting one also increases. It is often tragic for the deer and costly to the vehicle owner. As well, society in general is faced with costs when emergency vehicles become involved.

“It is one of the costs of sharing our environment with wildlife,” said the minister. “However, that cost can be reduced by being aware of the danger and driving with proper care and attention.”

Over the last five years, an average of 288 deer/vehicle collisions per year have been reported to the department in the month of June. Last year, more than 350 were reported. With a relatively high number of deer in the province this year, the number of collisions is again expected to be high.

NOTE: The following are the average numbers of deer/vehicle incidents by month, calculated from data available between 1995 and 2000.

March 67 April 114 May 170 June 288 July 213 August 155