Despite a declining deer population in the province, the number of animals being hit by vehicles is on the rise.
SGI’s Kelley Brinkworth says the number of moose and deer involved in collisions is higher than last year.
“From January to the end of September we have seen over 7,700 collision claims with wildlife and the cost on that is more than $30 million,” she says.
Collisions with wildlife are predicted to peak at the end of November until late December.
“Hopefully the exposure we are giving this issue will help prevent some collisions and possibly save some lives and injuries,” Executive Director for the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation Darrel Crabbe says. “People need to understand that wild animals have no street smarts. They do not act predictably and slowing down when encountering wildlife is the best defense against a collision.”
Motorists are reminded to slow down in areas and at times where wildlife frequently cross highways.