Relative humidities of around 25 to 35 percent are expected today across much of Rhode Island (excluding Block Island), along with above normal temperatures. Southwest winds are expected to be around 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph.
When factoring in the recent lack of rainfall, conditions
favoring wildfire development are again possible today. Use caution when
handling and disposing of ignition sources.
It's Deer Mating Season – Be Alert For Deer Crossing
Roadways
With days growing shorter, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is cautioning motorists to be on high alert for deer crossing roadways, particularly at dawn and dusk. The deer mating season (known as the “rut”) begins in late October and continues until early December. Deer move around more frequently during this time, and November is typically the peak period for collisions with motor vehicles.
Some tips for avoiding or mitigating auto collisions with
deer include:
- Scan
the shoulders of the road in front of you; deer may dash out from the
shoulder or wooded areas adjacent to the road.
- If you
see a deer while operating a motor vehicle, proceed with caution and
expect more than just one deer.
- Follow
the speed limit; keeping your speed down will give you more time to
respond to unexpected wildlife movements.
- Always
use seat belts, since most injuries occur to drivers who are not
belted.
- If a
collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane;
swerving sharply can cause an even more serious crash.
Anyone who strikes a deer should exercise caution when
approaching the deer, as it may only be stunned, and a person could become
seriously injured by a wounded animal's attempt to escape. Any deer-vehicle
collision should be reported to DEM's 24-hour dispatch office at 401-222-3070,
in addition to local police and the driver's insurance company. Motorists
should also notify the dispatch office if they observe an injured or road
killed deer as this is another way the DFW monitors the deer herd.
Deer vehicle collisions (DVCs) are a public safety risk and can be costly, averaging around $6,717 per collision according to the Federal Highway Administration. Deer reproductive behavior is the main driver behind DVCs and there were 1,347 DVCs reported to DEM in 2023. White-tailed deer are a common sight in Rhode Island and regulated hunting has proven to be the most cost-effective, efficient, and successful method of controlling deer populations, which in turn ensures that the population remains in balance with ecological and social factors. DEM biologists seek to balance deer hunting opportunities with maintaining a healthy deer population and reducing negative impacts associated with overpopulated deer, including agricultural crop losses, nuisance complaints from residents, and especially DVCs.
For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates. Follow DFW on Facebook and Instagram (@ri.fishandwildlife) to stay up to date on news, events and volunteer opportunities. You can also subscribe to DFW’s monthly newsletter here. Sign up here to receive the latest press releases, news, and events from DEM's Public Affairs Office to your inbox.
