Wildlife officials urge safety as deer mating and hunting seasons overlap in Georgia

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — This time of year, deer are on the move — and so are hunters.

As mating season and hunting season collide in Georgia, wildlife officials say safety is crucial for everyone, both on the road and in the woods.

Fall marks the rut, which is the breeding season for deer when bucks are most active and visible.

Experts say that’s why drivers see more deer near the road — and why crashes often spike this time of year.

According to University of Georgia researchers, deer are involved in an estimated 50,000 crashes each year — nearly 14% of all vehicle collisions statewide.

“You’re going to see more buck activity,” said Tripp Colter, a wildlife biologist with the Deer Management Assistance Program at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. “Bucks will be up on their