Drivers beware: Wildlife Federations warns wildlife collisions more likely to occur in fall

WATCH: SGI says there’s a higher risk of wildlife related vehicles collision in the fall. Jasmine Pelletier has the details.

Deer species are more active during the fall months - but what does that mean for Saskatchewan drivers?

“Mule deer, whitetail deer, elk and moose, the fall is prime time for them,” explains Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) Executive Director Todd Smith.

“It’s all reproductive seasons for those animals. Those ones we tend to run into the most, having issues with wildlife collisions at this time of year.”

It’s not just the reproductive season that makes collisions more likely. Deer species are most active at dusk and dawn. As the days get shorter, there’s more wildlife activity earlier in the evening.

The SWF is encouraging drivers to take extra precautions.

“Travel earlier in the day when you have some more light,” said Smith.

“The other option would be, if you have to travel at that time, slow down. Use your headlights. Make sure you’re looking along the roadways. If you do see an animal cross, deer for example, chances are there are going to be others that will follow.”

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SGI data shows an increase in wildlife collisions during the fall season. October and November are the only months where more than 1,000 wildlife-related collisions are reported on average.

SGI Media Relations Manager Heather Hubic has advice for drivers who have the mis-fortune of hitting an animal.

“Don’t approach the animal, especially if it appears to be wounded,” said Hubic.

“Injured animals, they can be extremely dangerous, so take precautions. If possible, after you’ve hit that animal, move your vehicle over to the shoulder of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and really just take a moment to regain your composure.”

There were more than 9,000 wildlife related collisions in the province in 2024.