Whitetail deer are active at this time of year, and it’s been showing up on area roadways with several car versus deer accidents this month. According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, there have been 13 documented accidents involving deer from November 1st – 7th, including four on Saturday the 5th, and three on Sunday the 6th. Washington County Sheriff Jerry Dunbar says the reason for all the activity is a combination of the continued harvest in the area, the peak of the deer mating season, or rut, and increased activity of hunters.

He advises, “Our deer population is extremely high. The number of deer car accidents we have has not gone down, and actually has been increasing. So when you get into areas that you see the deer sign, the yellow signs with a deer on it, slow down and be alert.” Dunbar adds, it’s a good idea to know the area you’re driving in, and keep an eye out for where other deer have been hit. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources warns the peak time for the rut is typically around Veterans Day, so drivers should be extra cautious. The increased deer activity will likely continue through the remainder of November, and most or all of December.