The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division explains why you may see deer on or by the road during cooler months.

Firstly, it is mating season for deer from October to late December, causing increased movement which can lead to deer being near roadways. Additionally, time changes due to daylight saving result in peak deer activity times coinciding with rush hour, especially at dawn and dusk. Deer are attracted to road shoulders for food during dry periods and following harsh winters, with heightened interest in late winter, early spring, and late summer.

In case of encountering a deer while driving, experts advise against swerving to avoid a collision as it may lead to losing control of your vehicle. It’s best to hit the deer than to risk further damage by swerving. Furthermore, deer may be in groups, so if one crosses, others may follow.

When driving, focus on minimizing damage by slowing down to reduce impact in case of a collision. Remember that deer are wild, so they can behave unpredictably, possibly running into the road when startled. Stay vigilant as more deer might be nearby, especially if one has already crossed in front of you. To learn more about deer and their movement patterns, visit GeorgiaWildlife. com or use Georgia’s deer rut map.