Did you know two of the three species of deer found in BC can be found here on Anarchist Mountain? White-tailed deer and mule deer can be commonly seen and, right now, both species are in rut. This means that male deer, or bucks, are frisky and looking for companionship from female deer, or does. Rut occurs late October through December each year, with the most activity occurring in mid-November. At this time of year, deer are more active and can be less aware of what's going on around them - this can increase the risk of deer-vehicle collisions or negative encounters on our property or in the back country.
Here are some tips to stay safe while driving during rutting season and all year-round.
Drive carefully - Be especially vigilant when driving Highway 3 and along our subdivision roads close to dawn and dusk. Female deer being pursued by bucks can quickly dart out onto the road.
Watch for signs - Look for deer crossing signs and flashing wildlife-warning signs.
Slow down and obey posted speed limits - If you see a deer, slow down without swerving. Signal oncoming traffic to let drivers know there is a deer on or close to the road.
Use high beams - Turn on your high-beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic to make spotting deer easier.
Be aware of groups: Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one deer, watch for others.
Maintain control - If a collision with a deer is inevitable, maintain control of your vehicle. Swerving into the ditch or oncoming traffic could make the outcome far worse.
Report collisions - If you hit a deer, turn on your hazard lights and move your vehicle off the road if you can. Please call AIM Roads (the contractor for BC Highways in the South Okanagan, 1-866-222-4204) or the RCMP (911) to report the collision.
If you've got deer frequenting your yard or encounter them while out walking or hiking, please remember to:
Keep your distance - Never, ever approach rutting male deer or get in between a group of deer.
Always keep your dog on a leash and under control - Do not let your dog chase deer, or any other wildlife. During rut, males are very territorial and can quickly turn and injure you or your dog. It's also against the law to let your dog chase wildlife.
Slowly move away if a deer glances at you out of the corner of its eye. This is a sign they are aggravated by your presence.
Never wave or shout at a deer that's acting threateningly - this can quickly make things worse. Slowly walk away and leave the area.
If you are experiencing conflict with deer or other wildlife, or find an injured deer, please call the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
