Photo: KAREN BLEIER / AFP / Getty Images
As the temperatures grow colder, New Jersey officials are urging drivers to exercise caution on the roads due to the onset of deer mating season. The Department of Environmental Protection’s Fish and Wildlife division has issued a warning about the increased risk of car accidents involving deer, a phenomenon that peaks during the fall mating season.
Every year, deer are involved in thousands of car accidents in New Jersey, with the highest number occurring during this time of year. As deer enter what experts refer to as the “fall rut,” they may suddenly dart onto roadways as bucks actively pursue does. This activity typically occurs in the very early morning or around sunset, times when visibility can be particularly low for drivers.
Officials are advising drivers to be especially vigilant during these hours and to look out for “deer crossing” signs. These signs are typically placed in areas known for high deer activity and serve as a warning for potential deer crossings.
In addition to heeding these signs, officials also recommend that if drivers see a deer, they should slow down and pay attention to sudden movement. Deer are unpredictable animals, and their behavior can change without warning, particularly during mating season when their focus is on finding a mate rather than on potential dangers.