Motorists Cautioned About Increased Deer Accidents During Mating Season

A wildlife rescue charity based in Shropshire has reported an increase in the frequency of accidents involving deer. Drivers in the county are being advised to exercise caution regarding these animals on roads, following a rise in incidents during the autumn rutting season, a period when stags compete for territory. Tina Cooke, community fundraiser and events manager for Cuan Wildlife Rescue, stated that deer “can and have been known to charge at vehicles if they’re in a particularly angry mood”. She further explained: “Not only can you hurt the deer, if and when you hit them, they can also hurt you, because they really can be quite large.” Cooke offered advice for drivers: “If you see a deer on the road, hit the brakes, slow down as much as you can.” She added: “Do not veer onto the other side of the road and if you see one, just wait a little while, ‘cos there are likely to be more that will be following.” Nearby Staffordshire County Council indicated that an estimated 74,000 deer-related incidents occur nationally each year. The council also noted that during the deer rut, the animals are “more active, particularly around the morning and evening rush hour.”