California Deer Migration - Spring and Fall

October 21, 2018 - As the weather begins to change in the high country, the deer population is moving to their summer range or winter range depending on the time of the year. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) would like to remind motorists to remain alert for migrating deer on the highways in the Eastern Sierra. Large numbers of deer are on the move at this time of the year and they pose a real threat to motorists. Serious injuries or death can occur if you strike a deer at highway speeds.

“It’s important that motorists, when driving through areas frequented by deer, elk and other animals, do all they can to protect themselves as well as some of California’s greatest natural resources – our wildlife,” said Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty.

In California alone, the California Highway Patrol reported more than 1,800 wildlife-vehicle collisions in 2010. Approximately $1 billion in property damage is also caused by these incidents. The Defenders of Wildlife, a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting native animals and plants, report more than 200 people are killed in collisions with wildlife each year with an estimated 1.5 million animals hit annually in the United States.

To reduce deer/vehicle accidents Caltrans identifies known deer migration crossings on State highways with warning signs. The vegetation along the sides of the roadway is mowed increasing the site distance of the driver. New construction and rehabilitation projects include flattening of the slopes next to the roadway and the removal of bitter brush seed from the re-vegetation mix. Biologist from Caltrans and Department of Fish & Game continue to study the habits of the deer population working to develop new technology that will improve driver safety as well as deer safety.

Ways to Prevent a Collision with a Deer:

• Slow down if you see a deer up ahead, as it is generally unpredictable.
• Watch for the rest of the gang - Deer are pack animals, and rarely travel alone. If a deer crosses in front of you, chances are there are more nearby. Slow down and keep an eye out for more deer darting across the road.
• Timing is everything - Deer are most active at dusk and dawn: periods when your vision is most compromised. To add to their terrible timing, deer are on the move during mating season (between October and January) when you’re more likely to travel after the sun sets. Slow down and stay alert, especially after dark.
• Wear your seatbelt - It may not prevent a collision, but if the inevitable happens a seatbelt can reduce injuries. This is especially true if you lose control and collide with something bigger, and more stationary than a deer.
• Take a moment to reflect - First, look for the road signs. The yellow diamonds with the deer on it are placed in high-traffic areas for deer. You may also spot a deer because their eyes will brightly reflect a car’s headlights, making them easier to spot.
• Stay Center - On a multi-lane road, the center lane is your safest bet for avoiding a deer collision, as long as your local traffic laws permit it. This gives deer plenty of space; and in case your vehicle does startle them, it gives you more time to react if one darts onto the road.
• Stay the course - If you see a deer, brake firmly and calmly, and stay in your lane. Swerving could make you lose control of your vehicle and turn a bad situation much worse. Not to mention, deer are unpredictable, and you could swerve directly into their changed path.
• Honk! - Some experts recommend that one long blast of the horn will scare deer out of the road. Do not rely on hood whistles or other devices designed to scare off deer — studies have shown them to be largely ineffective at minimizing accidents.

What to do if you hit a deer.

• Pull to the side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so.
• Turn on your hazard lights and remain in the vehicle until you are sure it is safe.
• Call emergency services if injuries are involved or the local police for property damage.
• Stay away from the deer. If it is still alive, it could be confused, injured and dangerous if approached. When contacting the authorities, let them know if the deer is in a dangerous spot on the road so that it can be removed.

Additional Information

• Learn more about mule deer: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Regions/6/Deer/Natural-History
• Defenders of Wildlife - Defenders works on the ground, in the courts, and on Capitol Hill to protect and restore imperiled wildlife across North America and around the world. Together, we can ensure a future for the wildlife and wild places we all love.
• Oregon Deer Migration - Motorists Beware - YouTube
  Source: Caltrans District 9