Along with cooler temperatures and falling leaves, late October until late November brings the rutting season, when bucks (male deer) search out does (female deer) for mating. Starting in October, you can observe bucks beginning to “hang around” does more and become more active. Buck behaviour during rutting season can seem unusual, but they’re really just single-minded as they follow the scent toward a doe.
That means they can run out into the road without noticing an approaching bike or vehicle. It’s important drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and scooters pay extra attention in order to reduce human-deer conflict, especially around dawn and dusk when deer tend to be more active.
A few reminders:
When driving
- Watch the roadside, especially when you know deer frequent the area. Drive as though you were in a playground or school zone; pay extra attention and reduce speed, especially when driving in unfamiliar areas at dawn and dusk. Scan ahead, looking for movement at the roadside.
Pay attention near parked cars
- If a doe is being pursued by a buck, they can unexpectedly dart out between two cars. If a doe runs across the road (they usually walk relatively slowly), expect that a buck may follow at speed.
When walking
- Keep your distance. While bucks are only interested in other deer, it’s best to keep your distance as you would with any wildlife. Because a deer’s natural response to danger is to run, always leave the deer an escape route away from yourself.
When with dogs
- Keep them close and calm. No matter their size, dogs are perceived by deer as a potential threat. When walking, keep dogs on a leash and if you encounter a deer, keep your dog pulled in close to you, stop it barking if possible, and walk away from the deer. Always check your yard carefully for deer before letting your dog out.
When cycling
- Give yourself time and space. Take plenty of room so you can react to any unpredictable movement. If it’s safe to do so, pull out from the curb and give the deer a wide berth. Slow down, and just like a driver, scan ahead, looking for movement. Pay particular attention when riding by parked cars in areas where there are deer.
Further information at the BCSPCA site