- The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is reminding motorists to be extra cautious on Ontario’s roads at this time of year when more wildlife is on the move.
- Moose, elk and deer are particularly active along roadways in the spring, especially at dawn and dusk. Deer rarely travel alone, so when motorists see one there are likely more nearby.
- Drivers who see these animals along the road should slow down and sound their horns in a series of short bursts.
- Animals can run onto the road when disoriented by headlights. At night, motorists should blink their headlights to warn the animals and give them a chance to move out of the way.
- Motorists should take extra care where roads cross creeks or rivers, in wooded corridors, or where field edges run perpendicular to the road. They should also be cautious where fences meet roads and where deer and moose crossing signs are posted.
- If you want to keep a dead wild animal (white-tailed deer, moose, elk, black bear, hawk, eagle, owl, furbearing mammal) that has been killed or found on a roadway, you are required to submit a Notice of Possession promptly upon acquiring the dead animal. (Note: special rules apply to endangered or threatened species).
- Motorists should take extra care where:
- Roads cross creeks or rivers
- There are wooded corridors
- Field edges run at a right angle to the road
- Fences meet roads
- Wildlife crossing signs are posted
- Stay in Control:
- Watch your speed when driving at night. Slowing down will give you more time to respond.
- Brake firmly if an animal is standing on or crossing the road, stopping if necessary. Avoid swerving; it may result in loss of control and a more serious collision.
- For more information, check out tips for motorists in Ontario.
If you require more information, please contact Karen Passmore, Regional Outreach Specialist at Karen.Passmore@ontario.ca or by phone at 705-235-1217.
