Slow Down

Did you know that the number of automobile-wildlife collisions substantially increases in fall?  Fewer daylight hours results in poor driving conditions during morning and evening commutes. Wildlife is more active in the evening and early morning and especially active in the fall.  Animals that hibernate, like bears or raccoons, travel widely between patches of nut-producing trees to fatten up for winter. For deer, fall is breeding season—males will brave the danger of crossing roads without a second thought to pursue females!  Most of us have seen squirrels or rabbits dart about and make sudden turns when in front of a moving automobile. This is also what they do when chased by a predator. This behavior makes them more likely to be hit by vehicles. Raccoons, skunks, opossums, foxes, armadillos, bears, deer, birds, snakes, frogs and turtles are all frequent victims of collisions.

Viewer Tip: Give Wildlife a Brake Week occurs from October 24-31. By simply increasing alertness and awareness while driving, the impact to American wildlife can be reduced. Scientists estimate that simple precautions such as slowing down to 45 miles-per-hour will substantially reduce the chances of a collision. In addition to speed control, scan roadside edges ahead of your car for movement or the reflection of an animal’s eyes in your headlights.

This information is provided by the Georgia Wildlife Federation. For more information, visit www.gwf.org.