Deer Populations Rise as Hunters Decline in Virginia’s Cities and Suburbs, Resulting in 20,000 Road Kill Cases Annually

Deer populations in Virginia’s cities and suburbs are on the rise, while the number of hunters in the state is declining. This trend has led to an increase in roadkill incidents, with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) receiving about 20,000 calls annually for road-killed animals, most of which are deer.

According to a recent tweet by Cardinal News, a local news outlet in Virginia, the deer population in urban and suburban areas of the state has been steadily increasing over the past few years. This rise in deer numbers can be attributed to various factors, including the availability of food sources, lack of natural predators, and the expansion of human settlements into their habitats.

At the same time, the number of licensed hunters in Virginia has been declining. This decline in hunting activity can be attributed to various reasons, including changing demographics, urbanization, and a shift in interests and priorities among the population. As a result, there are fewer hunters to control and manage the deer population through hunting.

The increase in deer populations, coupled with the decline in hunting activity, has led to a rise in the number of deer-related incidents on Virginia’s roads. VDOT crews have been inundated with calls for road-killed animals, with deer being the most commonly reported species. These incidents not only pose a threat to motorists but also result in significant damage to vehicles and infrastructure.

To address this issue, VDOT has been implementing various measures to mitigate deer-related accidents and reduce the impact on both human and animal life. One such measure is the installation of warning signs in areas with high deer populations to alert drivers to the potential danger. Additionally, VDOT has been working with local wildlife agencies to explore non-lethal methods of deer population control, such as fertility control programs and deer relocation initiatives.

However, these efforts alone may not be sufficient to effectively manage the growing deer populations in Virginia’s urban and suburban areas. It is crucial for the state to find a balance between conservation and population control to minimize the negative impacts of deer overpopulation.

Furthermore, it is important for residents of Virginia to be aware of the potential risks associated with deer-related incidents on the roads and take necessary precautions while driving. This includes observing speed limits, especially in areas known to have high deer populations, and remaining vigilant, particularly during dawn and dusk when deer are most active.

In conclusion, the increase in deer populations in Virginia’s cities and suburbs, coupled with the decline in hunting activity, has led to a rise in roadkill incidents. VDOT is working to address this issue through various measures, but more comprehensive efforts are needed to effectively manage the growing deer populations and minimize the risks associated with deer-related incidents on the roads. It is crucial for both the state and its residents to find a balance between conservation and population control to ensure the safety and well-being of both humans and animals..

Deer populations in Virginia’s cities and suburbs are increasing while the number of hunters declines

Over the past few years, VDOT crews have received about 20,000 calls for road-killed animals annually — most are deer.https://t.co/NPDm2uVOAM

— Cardinal News (@CardinalNewsVA) December 11, 2023

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@CardinalNewsVA said Deer populations in Virginia’s cities and suburbs are increasing while the number of hunters declines Over the past few years, VDOT crews have received about 20,000 calls for road-killed animals annually — most are deer. cardinalnews.org/2023/12/11/vir…

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