DEC: Drivers Beware, It's Deer Mating Season

Kings Park drivers are warned to keep extra lookout for deer when driving along roadways near Sunken Meadow State Park and Nissequogue River State Park. 

Kings Park Civic Association reported on its Facebook page a young deer was killed along Route 25A on Monday, despite multiple deer crossing posted in the area. 

"t was very sad to see that a young deer was killed on Rt. 25A yesterday. The KPCA called Smithtown Public Safety who contacted the state DOT. There have beer a few deer strikes this year...," reads the KPCA's message. 

Michelle Gibbons, regional wildlife manager for New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, said there are an increasing number of deer on the North Shore of Long Island that have led to some wildlife issues. 

"We got a report from a farmer along Pulaski Road who has had deer issues this year," Gibbons said. 

The DEC does not keep specific records on the size of Long Island's deer population, according to Gibbons, they have reports of deer sightings as far west as Glen Cove and Plainview, NY. 

Over the last two weeks, the number of deer sightings have sharply increased. Gibbons said the deer mating season has started causing male deer, stags, to roam and travel further than usual - crossing roads they might otherwise not - in search of a mate. 

"During the mating season, we typically see an increasing number of motor vehicle accidents and deer sightings," she said. 

Another factor at play is the seasonal shortening of daylight hours. Deer are more likely to be actively moving and traveling at dawn or dusk, according to Gibbons, which quickly creeping closer to the 6 p.m. rush hour. 

Smithtown Animal Shelter staff members say they have seen an influx of deer in the area over the past four years, with a growing number of animals brought in after being hit by motorists. 

Gibbons said drivers should slow down and be cautious in areas near state parks, wildlife preserves, or dense trees. She said those drivers who notice an area with repeated wildlife crossings should reach out to the road's owner, either Town of Smithtown or New York State Department of Transportation, to see about having new or additional signs installed. 

Residents spotting deer near their property or in the backyard can call the DEC at 631-444-0310 to speak with Gibbons or the staff's deer biologist.