05-08-2008, 11:10 AM
Montana drivers beware! The early signs of spring green up that are finally visible, may be especially bad news for unwary drivers.
<br>"Deer and other wildlife are eating along roadsides this time of year, taking advantage of the fresh new green grass sprouts and buds on willows and brush," said Ron Aasheim, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks communication and education division administrator.<br>
<br>Deer on the roadsides are a dangerous combination for deer and for drivers.<br>
<br>"In just few months the danger will double when deer fawns are born," Aasheim said. Many fawns are killed every spring when drivers fail to watch for them as they follow their mothers across the state's road and highways.<br>
<br>Drivers can help increase their safety and the safety of their passengers by adopting a few simple precautions, Aasheim said.<br>
<br>Be especially watchful from dusk to dawn when animals are most active. Avoid driving on cruise control during these hours.<br>
<br>Use extra caution near posted deer crossings. These areas are traditional crossings that wildlife use to reach food, water and shelter.<br>
<br>Be aware that deer and elk rarely travel alone. When one deer crosses the road, prepare to avoid those that follow. Especially in spring, watch for trailing fawns.<br>
<br>Be especially watchful along rural roads where roadside brush may obstruct your view.<br>
<br>If you do hit a deer, elk or other big game animal, remember that it is against the law to possess or transport the animal, or any portion of the animal, including the antlers.<br>
<br>For help, and to report the collision, call the city police, county sheriff, or the Montana Highway Patrol. If the animal is seriously injured but still alive, ask that an FWP game warden or other law enforcement officer be sent to dispatch the animal and safely remove it from the road.<br>
<br>Do not attempt to tend to an injured wild animal as they can be very dangerous and unpredictable.
<br>"Deer and other wildlife are eating along roadsides this time of year, taking advantage of the fresh new green grass sprouts and buds on willows and brush," said Ron Aasheim, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks communication and education division administrator.<br>
<br>Deer on the roadsides are a dangerous combination for deer and for drivers.<br>
<br>"In just few months the danger will double when deer fawns are born," Aasheim said. Many fawns are killed every spring when drivers fail to watch for them as they follow their mothers across the state's road and highways.<br>
<br>Drivers can help increase their safety and the safety of their passengers by adopting a few simple precautions, Aasheim said.<br>
<br>Be especially watchful from dusk to dawn when animals are most active. Avoid driving on cruise control during these hours.<br>
<br>Use extra caution near posted deer crossings. These areas are traditional crossings that wildlife use to reach food, water and shelter.<br>
<br>Be aware that deer and elk rarely travel alone. When one deer crosses the road, prepare to avoid those that follow. Especially in spring, watch for trailing fawns.<br>
<br>Be especially watchful along rural roads where roadside brush may obstruct your view.<br>
<br>If you do hit a deer, elk or other big game animal, remember that it is against the law to possess or transport the animal, or any portion of the animal, including the antlers.<br>
<br>For help, and to report the collision, call the city police, county sheriff, or the Montana Highway Patrol. If the animal is seriously injured but still alive, ask that an FWP game warden or other law enforcement officer be sent to dispatch the animal and safely remove it from the road.<br>
<br>Do not attempt to tend to an injured wild animal as they can be very dangerous and unpredictable.