Early rutting deer endangers drivers: Beware of game crossings!

Early rutting deer endangers drivers: Beware of game crossings!

The roe deer rut started earlier than usual in the hunting grounds of the Erding district, a circumstance that is primarily due to the warm temperatures. According to ed-live.de, the first rut observations were recorded in the first weeks of July, which has not been the case in recent years. Thomas Schreder, a wildlife biologist and chairman of the Erding district hunting association, says that this change may be related to climate change and thus influence the living conditions for the game.

Roebucks and goats are particularly active during this exciting time. They pay less attention to their surroundings, especially during the rut. This behavior leads to an increased risk of wildlife accidents as the animals tend to suddenly cross the roads. Hunters in the region use traditional methods such as imitating the chirping of a roe deer with a beech leaf, but modern lure instruments are also increasingly being used to attract roe deer.

Take wildlife accidents seriously

Given the current rutting season, the hunting association and authorities warn that drivers and motorcyclists should drive with particular caution. noe.orf.at reports on the increased activity of game during this time, which can not only be associated with damage to vehicles, but also with dangerous situations for the occupants. Those driving through heavily wooded areas should reduce their speed and pay attention. Wildlife crossing signs are an important indication here.

The numbers speak for themselves: around 73,000 accidents involving wildlife occur in Austria every year, which corresponds to around eight accidents per hour. [kfv.at]. It often becomes particularly dangerous at night and at dusk, where almost half of the accidents involving wild animals involving personal injuries are recorded. The main causes of such accidents are often carelessness and inadequate speed.

What to do after a wildlife accident?

If an accident occurs with wildlife, it is important to act prudently. Drivers should park their car in a safe place, secure the scene of the accident and call the police. This will not only issue a confirmation of the accident for the insurance company, but will also inform the responsible hunter. You should know that the animal's escape must also be reported if it is no longer on site.

The rutting season, which usually lasts until mid-August, requires particular attention from all road users. It's important to enjoy this beautiful natural event, but with a keen eye for the game that can sometimes surprise us.