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With Autumn in Full Swing, Colorado Officials Warn of Increased Wildlife Near Busy Highways
Colorado State Patrol says wildlife crashes topped 3,900 last year as deer, elk and bears move closer to roads in fall.
The Colorado State Patrol is reminding drivers that October through December marks the peak season for wildlife crashes, with thousands of animal-related collisions reported annually as species migrate to lower elevations for winter.
Many Colorado wildlife species are highly vulnerable to being struck during autumn because it is their peak mating season, making them more mobile, easily distracted, and more likely to cross roadways.
Last year, troopers responded to nearly 4,000 crashes involving wildlife, with October seeing 882 incidents. High-risk roadways include U.S. 160 from Durango to Pagosa Springs and Interstate 70 near Floyd Hill.
Drivers should adhere to speed limits and scan roads for movement and eyeshine. If unable to brake safely, stay in the lane and never swerve; if a crash occurs, call 911.
Wildlife-Related crashes have steadily increased over five years, rising from 2,296 incidents in 2021. Bear roadkill in northwest regions surged this year due to widespread food failure from drought.