As spring unfolds across Scotland, so too does a quiet but serious hazard on our roads.
Roe deer, graceful and elusive, are now on the move in greater numbers, prompting fresh warnings for drivers to be on high alert.
NatureScot, in partnership with Transport Scotland and Traffic Scotland, has launched a new road safety campaign this week, reminding motorists that the risk of deer collisions is at its peak.
From now until 13 June, electronic message boards will flash vital alerts across areas of higher risk, particularly in the central belt.
The timing is no accident.
This season marks a key moment in the life of young roe deer, who are striking out to find their own space.
As they cross roads in search of new territory, the danger increases sharply, especially during the twilight hours.
Dusk, when visibility fades and deer are most active, is when accidents are most likely to occur.
Each year, nearly 2,000 deer-related collisions are officially recorded across Scotland, though the true figure is likely much higher.
Dominic Sargent, Deer Policy Officer at NatureScot, says these collisions are more common than many realise, especially in suburban areas where roads cut through patches of woodland and scrub.
“Roe deer often live quietly close to where we live and work,” he explains.
“Places near road junctions and busy interchanges can be surprisingly high-risk, because these deer rely on nearby green spaces for food and shelter.”
The campaign’s goal is clear: make drivers more aware, slow things down and save lives.
“By reminding drivers to stay alert and ease off the accelerator, we can reduce the chances of a collision,” Sargent adds.
The message is one of prevention, but it also looks to the future.
NatureScot and Transport Scotland are continuing to explore smarter ways to protect both drivers and deer, including localised deer management plans and better tracking of high-risk zones.
Angus Corby, Landscape and Biodiversity Manager at Transport Scotland, underscores the importance of this partnership.
“Tackling deer collisions across our trunk road network is no small task,” he says.
“Our shared aim is to better understand where these risks lie, so we can focus our efforts and improve safety for everyone.”
The advice is simple but essential: when you’re behind the wheel, especially in rural or wooded areas, slow down and stay sharp.
That flash of movement in your headlights might be a roe deer looking to cross safely home.
