MOTORISTS NEED TO BE ALERT TO DEER'S FALL MOVEMENTS

JEFFERSON CITY -- Why do male white-tailed deer risk their lives crossing roads each fall? To get to the female deer on the other side. Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wildlife research biologist Lonnie Hansen says during the breeding season in late October through November, the drive to mate almost exclusively dictates deer behavior.

"If a buck is on the trail of a doe and she's crossed the road, he's going to follow her," Hansen says. "The normal caution a deer takes before crossing a busy road just isn't there during the rut."

The animals' lack of caution increases your risk of getting involved in a deer-vehicle accident. MDC research has found that more than a fourth of such accidents occur in November, when the deer mating season or "rut" is at its peak.

Deer behavior can't be changed, so drivers must change their driving habits to avoid accidents. Slow down and watch for deer when you're near a wooded area or where deer crossing signs are posted. It's especially important to drive cautiously during evening and early morning hours when the animals are actively seeking food and shelter. The sooner you spot a deer, the more time you'll have to react to its movements.

Upon sighting a deer, slow down immediately if you can do so without causing a traffic hazard. Do this even if a deer already has crossed the road. The animal could turn back into your path. It's also good to slow down because deer travel in groups and there may be more following the one you've spotted.

Hansen says flashing your car lights or honking your horn may stimulate a deer standing in the middle of a road to move, or discourage one from moving onto the road.

Some deer-vehicle accidents are unavoidable. They usually occur when a deer runs into the side of a moving vehicle or leaps out in front of a car. If this happens and you cannot stop, slow down, but don't swerve wildly trying to avoid the animal.

"Some of the most serious accidents occur when a deer jumps out onto the road, a driver swerves to avoid it and loses control of his car," Hansen says. "You're at less risk of serious injury if you hit the deer than you are if you lose control and hit another car or a tree."

Deer-vehicle accidents should be reported to local law enforcement officials. Your report will help MDC track the incidence of deer- vehicle accidents. You must contact MDC if you want to keep a road- killed deer for the meat. The law requires that you get a disposition from a conservation agent to possess the deer before you can take it home.