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Wednesday, October 22, 2014
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VOL. 101 NO. 15
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Wildlife warning AUTUMN MacDONALD Observer Reporter
Cariboo motorists are urged keep an extra close eye out for wildlife during the months of October and November. “Although a collision with wildlife can happen at any place and at any time, on Cariboo roads, there is a sharp spike in wildlife vehicle collisions that begins in October,” Regional Manager, B.C. Conservation Foundation Barb Waters said. “The critical times to watch for wildlife on the roads are between 6 – 8 a.m. and 5 – 8 p.m.” Drivers are particularly advised to watch out for moose, deer and other animals on local roads, especially Highway 97 from 100 Mile House to Quesnel, which has been identified as having a very high number of deer vehicle collisions. There can be up to two or three wildlife collisions every day in October and November. According to ICBC statistics there are more than 900 animal collisions every year in the Cariboo area. Annually in northern B.C., about three people are killed and 140 people are injured in wildlife collisions. The Wildlife Collision Prevention Program offers the following hints for the highway: • Both drivers and passengers must actively watch for wildlife on the road and roadside area. • People think of the road as a dangerous place, but in fact, animals are often attracted to the road and roadside area. Drive expecting to see wildlife. • During the rutting season animals are frequently on the move and vehicles might be the last thing on their minds. • Animals don’t think or perceive danger the same way that humans do. They may not recognize a vehicle as dangerous or a horn as a warning or even if they do, they may not react safely. • Animals are unpredictable in their behaviour and may bolt in front of a vehicle or cross and then immediately re-cross the road. • Deer are often seen in groups, so if there is one animal there are usually more. The deer you are watching may not be the one that poses the threat; it may be the second or third deer following behind that causes the problem.
Fall’s fleeting fanfare The beautiful fall colours last for just a few weeks before all the leaves land on the ground and the barren pre-snow trees are a stark reminder that ice and snow are on their way. Enjoy this season while it lasts. Autumn MacDonald photo
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