Drivers urged to be vigilant of deer during mating season
The most dangerous times of the day are dawn and dusk when deer are most active in high-risk woodland and mountainous areas running alongside roadways, according to the Wild Deer Association of Ireland.
Road users around Killarney National Park and forested areas in the south-west are being advised to be vigilant.
Upwards of six accidents involving deer have been reported, so far. A number of deer have been killed and extensive damage has been caused to cars in some cases.
“There is an increased incidence of traffic accidents involving deer as male deer go in search of females and younger males are ousted by dominant males forcing deer to cross roads and motorways,” said association secretary Damien Hannigan.
Drivers should take note of warning signs, he said, and dip their headlights if they see a deer on the road, as a full beam could cause the animal to just stand still.
Mr Hannigan also said while a driver might see only one deer crossing a road, they should be aware others were likely to follow.
Kerry Deer Society chairman Noel Grimes echoed Mr Hannigan’s warning and said drivers should obey warning signs. However, he said that some signs erected by Kerry County Council in the Killarney area had disappeared and he called on the council to put up more signs.
The annual deer rut, which can continue into November, is luring increasing numbers of nature lovers to Killarney, according to Mr Grimes.
It’s a time when large numbers of stags and hinds can be seen in the open and gives enthusiasts plenty of photo opportunities. But, people are also urged not to go too close to the stags, which can be dangerous.
“The stags are now looking their brilliant best and showing off. People are coming from different parts of the country to see them,” Mr Grimes said.
Kerry Deer Society yesterday held its annual deer rut walk on the Old Kenmare Road through Killarney National Park.
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