Motorists warned to watch out for deer in Kerry as rutting season starts

Dawn and dusk is when the deer are most active and this is when motorists need to be “extra vigilant"

Sika deer in Killarney - the small Japanese breed introduced in the 19th century by local landlords - have already begun whistling, signalling their annual rut is underway. Photo: Damien Eagers

Motorists in deer hotspots are being warned to keep an eye out for a surge in deer movement with the advent of the annual rut or mating season as eager males chase groups of females across roads and even motorways.

Sika deer in Killarney - the small Japanese breed introduced in the 19th century by local landlords - have already begun whistling, signalling their annual rut is underway.