Delaware authorities warn drivers to watch out for deer

Delaware drivers are urged to use extra caution on roads during deer mating season, especially as the days shorten and deer become more active in the morning and evening. Late October through November is peak period for deer-related crashes, as that’s when white-tailed bucks are in their annual pursuit of does. 

White-tailed deer breed only once a year. The mating season, which carries on from late October into mid-December, and peaks from Nov. 11 to 20, is referred to as the rut. “During this time frame, deer activity increases substantially as bucks search for mates,” said Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Division of Fish and Wildlife Environmental Program Manager Joe Rogerson. “If a buck’s pursuit of a doe takes them across a roadway, it doesn’t matter if it’s a rural road or Route 1, a collision with a vehicle could occur. Delaware drivers need to pay particular attention while behind the wheel this time of year, especially when driving on roads bordered by woods or agricultural fields, since that’s where deer are more apt to run out onto the roadway.”

The average white-tailed deer in Delaware weighs about 140 pounds, with larger bucks going 200 pounds or more, according to the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife. Hitting an animal that size may cause injury to drivers or passengers, or trigger an accident involving other motorists – besides doing costly damage to vehicles involved in such a collision. The best way to prevent or lessen the severity of deer collisions is attentive driving, which includes avoiding distractions that can take a driver’s eyes off the road, such as mobile phones, adjusting the radio, eating while driving, or passenger activities.