November is “the rut” or mating season for whitetail deer in the Canyon Lake area.
Comal County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Shawn Trevino said deputies see an increase in deer-related crashes this time of year, when deer may enter roadways unexpectedly.
Bucks are cruising for does in heat, and to make matters worse for driver safety, deer-hunting season is strategically timed to coincide with the rut, Texas A&M’s Natural Resources Institute reports.
Like most male mammals, bucks seem to lose a lot of their natural caution when the scent of a receptive female is in the air, according to Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Trevino said slowing down, allowing extra time for a trip, and keeping eyes on the road are simple precautions that can make a significant difference in safety.
“We encourage residents to slow down, watch the roadsides and be especially alert around dawn and dusk,” he said. “If you see one deer, anticipate that others may follow. If a deer enters your path, brake as safely as possible and maintain control of your vehicle. Avoid swerving, which can cause you to enter oncoming traffic or leave the roadway.”
The rut ends in December.