Drivers advised to take extra caution as deer mating season begins

Drivers travelling through Cannock Chase are advised to be extra vigilant of deer as their mating season begins.

Drivers travelling through Cannock Chase are being advised to lower their speed to 40mph, as deer mating season draws in. 

Late September marks the beginning of the deer mating season – also known as the deer rut. This is when the deer are more active, particularly around the morning and evening rush hour, creating an increased risk of collisions with motorists.  

In response, Staffordshire County Council’s countryside rangers are implementing heightened safety measures at Cannock Chase to protect both deer and drivers. 

Signs will be put up asking motorists to stick to an advisory 40mph and be more aware of deer during their daily commutes through Cannock Chase.  

These supplement the existing light and sound deer deterrents installed four years ago. These deterrents reduce the likelihood of collisions by emitting sounds and flashing lights to discourage deer from crossing the road when vehicles approach. 

Last year, around 150 accidents involving deer occurred in the Cannock Chase area and, this year, 85 incidents have already been reported. Nationally, it is estimated 74,000 deer related incidents occur every year. 

Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for communities and culture, said:

"As the days get shorter and visibility decreases, deer can be much harder to spot, and they often leap unexpectedly in front of oncoming vehicles.  

“We’ve implemented several measures over the years to improve safety, but we also need drivers to do their part by staying vigilant and following the recommended speed limit. The number of deer collisions in Cannock Chase is still too high. Together, we can reduce accidents and keep both our wildlife and road users safe." 

Tips to reduce the risk of a deer collision:

• If your headlights are on, use full-beams when you can but dip them if you see deer because they may ‘freeze’.  

• Lower your speed when you see 

• More deer will likely follow the first one you see, so be aware.  

• Always be prepared to stop. Avoid suddenly swerving to avoid a deer. Hitting oncoming traffic or another obstacle could be even worse.  

• If you must stop, activate your hazard warning lights.  

• Do not approach an injured deer as it could be dangerous. Instead, call 999 and ask for the Police. 

On Sunday 6 October, the British Deer Society are hosting a ‘Deer Awareness Day’ at the Marquis Drive Visitor Centre in Cannock Chase from 10am through to 3pm. 

It is free to attend so go along to the event and chat to your local deer society members for information and advice.