UGA Researchers Compile Study to Help Reduce Deer/Vehicle Collisions

University of Georgia researchers have completed a county-by-county analysis of when motorists should be more aware of possibly hitting a deer this season.

In a press release from the University of Georgia, in collaboration with the Wildlife Resources Division and the Georgia Department of Transportation, Fall is prime breeding season for deer across Georgia. It’s also when drivers are more likely to hit deer that run into the road. The reason for this increase, is because this is “rutting season” , and white-tailed deer move around a lot more looking for mates, according to James Stickles, lead researcher on the project.

For Rabun County, the week of November 24th-30th is the peak of “rut season”, as well as Habersham, Stephens, White, and Lumpkin Counties.

Professor Bob Warren also warns motorists of precautions

“Deer are rarely alone, if a motorist sees one deer, look for the second one.” Warren says, “In many instances, it’s the second deer that crosses the road that gets hit.”

He also advises that deer are more active between dusk and dawn

According to the study, between 2005 and 2012, there were 45,811 reported deer-vehicle collisions across all Georgia counties.

To view the map, click here: http://www.georgiawildlife.com/rut-map