Deer Season? Now It’s Moose You Need To Watch For

Deer are on the move across Michigan, and drivers should stay alert for animals crossing the roads. In the Upper Peninsula, drivers should also be cautious of moose.

Driving through Michigan in the fall offers stunning views, with all the colors of the leaves changing, but it's also a time when the most deer-vehicle collisions occur. The fall is mating season for whitetail deer and Michigan's moose population.

Whitetail Deer Collisions Spike in Fall

The months with the highest number of deer-vehicle collisions in Michigan are November and October, with November typically seeing the most crashes. Deer begin mating activity in October, with peak breeding in November.

In mid-to-late October, younger male deer begin randomly chasing females—a period known as the "chasing phase." During this time, male deer also spar with each other to prepare for more serious fights over mates when the breeding season begins in November. This increased activity leads to more frequent road crossings, raising the risk of collisions with vehicles.

Read More: Deer Trapped in Fence Rescued by Michigan Troopers

The rut takes place in November, when mature male deer actively search for mates, often causing them to dart across roads unpredictably, which can lead to collisions. During this period, bucks are on the move around the clock for several weeks, significantly increasing the risk of vehicle accidents.

More Than Deer: Moose Now a Roadside Hazard

The Lower Peninsula of Michigan doesn't have to worry about moose crossing the roads, but if you live in or are visiting the Upper Peninsula, it is something you need to be aware of.

According to WOOD TV, since 2021, 60 moose have been killed in car collisions in the U.P. Moose are much larger than deer and not only more dangerous than whitetail deer for your vehicle, but also for drivers.

Moose are most active in the summer and fall, but particularly in September and October during their mating season. Just like whitetail deer, the male moose are often in pursuit of a female mate, which leads them to cross roads more frequently. Over one-third of moose collisions happen during this time.

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If you plan on a trip to the Upper Peninsula to see the fall colors, also be on the lookout for moose and deer crossing the roads randomly 24 hours a day. It may save your life, your vehicle, and your insurance rates.

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