Wildlife officials urge safety as deer mating and hunting seasons overlap in Georgia

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — This time of year, deer are on the move — and so are hunters.

As mating season and hunting season collide in Georgia, wildlife officials say safety is crucial for everyone, both on the road and in the woods.

Fall marks the rut, which is the breeding season for deer when bucks are most active and visible.

Experts say that’s why drivers see more deer near the road — and why crashes often spike this time of year.

According to University of Georgia researchers, deer are involved in an estimated 50,000 crashes each year — nearly 14% of all vehicle collisions statewide.

“You’re going to see more buck activity,” said Tripp Colter, a wildlife biologist with the Deer Management Assistance Program at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. “Bucks will be up on their feet where most of the rest of the year they’re staying hidden. They’re staying in cover, but they’re going to be moving more in daylight hours.”

Colter says if a deer darts out in front of your vehicle, the safest option is not to swerve.

“It’s much better to hit the deer with your car — much safer — than to try to swerve,” he said. “Slow down if you can, and hold onto the steering wheel.”

The same season sending deer across highways is also bringing hunters into the woods.

Archery and primitive weapon seasons are already underway, and rifle season began in October.

With more people outdoors, safety becomes even more important.

Colter says most hunting accidents come from falls out of tree stands.

“A lot of times we see broken necks and paralysis,” Colter said. “Wearing that safety harness while you’re climbing and hooking up when you get up there — that’s key.”

He says the Department of Natural Resources even uses deer-vehicle collisions to track when rut activity peaks, and hunters play a key role in managing the population safely.

As hunting season continues, Colter reminds those participating to wear their orange vests and practice gun safety.

Whether you’re behind the wheel or in the woods, officials say awareness is what keeps everyone safe.