This release was issued under a previous government.
Almost one in five (18 per cent) of wildlife collisions occur in November – more than in any other month of the year.
Collisions increase at this time because of mating season. Animals are drawn to roads for a number of reasons including an abundance of roadside vegetation, they are attracted to road salt, they are looking for mates and, in many cases, roads cut through their migration routes.
“All of us can take steps to be safer on our highways and rural roads. I remind drivers to be extra careful during this time of year. Expect to see animals and to be prepared to stop if necessary when you see an animal near the road.”
On average, there are almost 1,200 wildlife collisions each month but, in November, the average jumps to 2,465.
Collision statistics
- There were 70,453 animal collisions over the past five years.
- Last year, 47 per cent of collisions on rural highways in Alberta involved an animal.
- Over the last five years, one-third of all animal-involved collisions occurred between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Tips for preventing a collision with an animal
- Reduce your speed and use caution in areas with wildlife warning signs or animal crossing signs.
- Be especially careful at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
- Use the high beams of your headlights whenever possible. It will enable you to see animals sooner. Sometimes, an animal’s eyes will reflect the light.
- If you see an animal on or near the roadway, slow down immediately — animal behaviour can be unpredictable and they sometimes travel in groups. Honk in a series of short bursts to encourage the animal to leave the area. Be prepared to stop.