Laois Gardaí warn drivers about wild deer

Laois Gardaí are urging drivers to be extra vigilant on the roads during deer rutting season. 

“We are reminding motorists across Laois and Offaly to be extra vigilant on our roads during deer rutting season, which peaks throughout October.

Deer are more active and unpredictable at this time of year, particularly at dawn and dusk. Incidents are commonly reported in areas such Abbeyleix along the N77, Clonaslee and Kinnitty along the R422,  Near Tullamore Golf Club along the R421, Mountmellick to Emo Road (between Carn Bridge and The Kennels Cross). On the back road to Portarlington at Woodbrook and  Emo Court and surrounding rural road. 

Gardaí have asked drivers to reduce speed in known deer crossing areas or where warning signs are in place.

“Be prepared to stop suddenly – deer often move in groups and may follow one another across the road. Dip your headlights if you see a deer, as full beams may cause them to freeze. Avoid swerving, as this can lead to more serious collisions,” they said. 

“If you are involved in or witness a road traffic collision involving a deer, contact Gardaí immediately. Let’s all do our part to keep our roads safe this autumn,” Gardai added. 

Independent Cllr Ollie Clooney described the road between Durrow and Abbeyleix as a “hotspot” for deer at this time of year. He too advised motorists to be careful on the road in the coming weeks. He said he doesn’t know whether the population is up or down this year but he urged vigilance. 

“The hotspots are between Durrow and Abbeyleix, they are on the back roads as well,” he warned. He said people driving into the low winter sun needed to be extra cautious as visibility can be impaired.  

The Irish Deer Commission, which operates a humane deer dispatch scheme for injured deer, is urging drivers to be extra vigilant on the roads during this autumn.

“From late September until early November the clash of antlers will be heard as males show off their virility…it is also a time when there is an increased incident of road traffic accidents involving deer as male deer go in search of females and younger males are ousted by dominant males forcing deer to cross public roads and motorways,” the Irish Deer Commission stated.  

They called on motorists to be vigilant at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active, particularly in high risk areas such as woodlands and mountains.

“If you are involved in a road traffic accident involving a deer or come across a deer that has been involved in a road traffic accident, immediately contact the local Gardaí. The Irish Deer Commission operates a humane deer dispatch scheme with 135 trained volunteers assisting agencies and charities who deal with an increasing number of deer vehicle collisions nationally,” they concluded.