Drivers Warned To Stay Alert During Deer Mating Season
Shelley Hanson Trending
Motorists driving on Interstate 70 and other highways in Ohio County have been encountering deer in the roadway.
Some of these encounters have been near-misses while others have resulted in accidents. For example, at 3:55 a.m. Monday, Ohio County Sheriff Department deputies were dispatched to a deer vs. vehicle accident on Interstate 70 west near Exit 10. While the deer left the area, the motorist's vehicle, a 2021 Ford Explorer, was moved to a nearby gas station and then towed because of the damage.
During the past couple weeks, deputies have been responding to other deer vs. vehicle calls as well. Most have resulted in minor damage to the vehicles.
Chris Ryan, wildlife biologist and supervisor of game management services for the West Virginia Division of Wildlife, said male deer are on the move seeking females to mate with.
"We're approaching what most people call the rut or breeding season for season," he said. "The peak activity is in about two and a half weeks. The animals will really be on the move until then."
Ryan said the male deer are traveling outside of their usual territories, leading them to cross roads and highways that they normally would not.
"Reduce your speed. Deer are on the move at dusk and dawn. During those times be alert for animals approaching the roads," he said.