Md.DNR Press Release,Seasonal Deer Movement Raises Risk Of Vehicle Collisions

[James White (Premo)]

Seasonal Deer Movement Raises Risk Of Vehicle Collisions
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ANNAPOLIS — Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife & Heritage Service advises motorists to be especially alert for deer crossing roads and highways during October and November.

Motorists should always be vigilant for deer and other animals crossing in front of them, but the early fall is a time period of elevated white-tailed deer movement. Yearling bucks seek out new home ranges that will last their lifespan. A Kent County deer study revealed that yearling white-tailed bucks relocated an average of four miles.

Adult bucks and does, searching for mates, increase their movements within their established home range. After mating, the adult buck continues his pursuit of additional receptive does. Young male deer born this past May and June can be separated from their mother as a result of this breeding behavior.

This reproductive induced deer movement increases deer movement across highways and roads during October and November. Motorists need to heighten their awareness for the potential of deer crossing the road in front of them. DNR offers the Maryland motorists the following tips to improve the odds of avoiding a deer and vehicle collision:

A deer standing near the road may suddenly leap onto the road. Slow down and sound your horn to scare the deer away from the road.
If you see a deer crossing the road ahead, slow down and scan for more deer. Deer travel in groups; others may be nearby, but out of view.
Slow down and brake to avoid hitting a deer, but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a driver to lose control and strike another vehicle. Drivers may lose control of their vehicle, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike a tree or roll over.
Throughout the year, increase your awareness for deer in the early morning hours and late afternoon hours. Deer commonly move between daytime resting areas to evening feeding locations.
Be more alert in areas of deer-crossing highway signs. These warning signs indicate locations of frequent deer crossings.
Maryland’s autumn season provides excellent weather for visiting Maryland’s varied landscapes. Maryland’s woodlands become a brilliant color palette of oranges, yellows, reds and greens. Many animals such as deer, waterfowl and bears increase their movements that make them more visible. Wildlife behavior in the fall enhances bird watching, wildlife photography and hunting. Travel to your favorite Maryland outdoor recreational areas and discover additional areas, but be especially wary of deer along Maryland’s roads and highways.


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September 28, 2006

[chernmax]

Originally Posted by James White

Seasonal Deer Movement Raises Risk Of Vehicle Collisions
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ANNAPOLIS — Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife & Heritage Service advises motorists to be especially alert for deer crossing roads and highways during October and November.

Motorists should always be vigilant for deer and other animals crossing in front of them, but the early fall is a time period of elevated white-tailed deer movement. Yearling bucks seek out new home ranges that will last their lifespan. A Kent County deer study revealed that yearling white-tailed bucks relocated an average of four miles.

Adult bucks and does, searching for mates, increase their movements within their established home range. After mating, the adult buck continues his pursuit of additional receptive does. Young male deer born this past May and June can be separated from their mother as a result of this breeding behavior.

This reproductive induced deer movement increases deer movement across highways and roads during October and November. Motorists need to heighten their awareness for the potential of deer crossing the road in front of them. DNR offers the Maryland motorists the following tips to improve the odds of avoiding a deer and vehicle collision:

A deer standing near the road may suddenly leap onto the road. Slow down and sound your horn to scare the deer away from the road.
If you see a deer crossing the road ahead, slow down and scan for more deer. Deer travel in groups; others may be nearby, but out of view.
Slow down and brake to avoid hitting a deer, but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a driver to lose control and strike another vehicle. Drivers may lose control of their vehicle, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike a tree or roll over.
Throughout the year, increase your awareness for deer in the early morning hours and late afternoon hours. Deer commonly move between daytime resting areas to evening feeding locations.
Be more alert in areas of deer-crossing highway signs. These warning signs indicate locations of frequent deer crossings.
Maryland’s autumn season provides excellent weather for visiting Maryland’s varied landscapes. Maryland’s woodlands become a brilliant color palette of oranges, yellows, reds and greens. Many animals such as deer, waterfowl and bears increase their movements that make them more visible. Wildlife behavior in the fall enhances bird watching, wildlife photography and hunting. Travel to your favorite Maryland outdoor recreational areas and discover additional areas, but be especially wary of deer along Maryland’s roads and highways.


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September 28, 2006

Great, like if bad drivers don't contribute enough to car crashes as it is!!!

[Penn]

We go through this period every year. You'll start to see the deer south of the NAS, and north of Wildewood, on RTE 235/5 anytime now.

On RTE 4, from the turnoff from RTE 235 to the bridge, and then after Solomons,
it's literally fair game country!

Just like James White says, slow down when you see a deer alongside the road, sound your horn to scare them away(maybe) and be alert for other deer nearby.

Take pictures, if you've got your digital camera with ya!

[desertrat (Premo)]

Originally Posted by Penn

We go through this period every year. You'll start to see the deer south of the NAS, and north of Wildewood, on RTE 235/5 anytime now.

On RTE 4, from the turnoff from RTE 235 to the bridge, and then after Solomons,
it's literally fair game country!

Just like James White says, slow down when you see a deer alongside the road, sound your horn to scare them away(maybe) and be alert for other deer nearby.

Take pictures, if you've got your digital camera with ya!

And if you do clobber one, have it butchered so it doesn't go to waste.

[chernmax]

Route 234 south towards Budds Creek is another fun deer spot...

[Penn]

Originally Posted by desertrat

And if you do clobber one, have it butchered so it doesn't go to waste.

They don't go to waist at my house!

[Penn]

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/te...ers-deer_x.htm

Several states plan to test roadside sensor systems that can detect large animals and warn drivers in a bid to reduce sometimes-deadly collisions between motor vehicles and deer, moose and other wildlife.

One system, developed by Sensor Technologies and Systems (STS) in Scottsdale, Ariz., uses transmitters and microwave radio signals along a 1-mile stretch of U.S. 191 in Yellowstone. When a large animal crosses a signal's beam, beacons flash on top of signs to warn motorists they could encounter wildlife.

New Mexico, Arizona, California and Nevada are preparing to use this system, or ones akin to it.

Could Maryland benefit from this warning device?

[BlackSheep]

Factor in folks who use radioed collared dogs to hunt deer-the carnage on the road is obscene!

[Mikeinsmd]

Originally Posted by BlackSheep

Factor in folks who use radioed collared dogs to hunt deer-the carnage on the road is obscene!

Hunting has nothing to do with them getting hit.

[Fubar]

Originally Posted by Mikeinsmd

Hunting has nothing to do with them getting hit.

Say what?
Well ifn the a-holes who use dogs to hunt deer wouldn't use them, then the dogs wouldn't run into the road and get hit while chasing deer!