Terrestrial Wildlife

Fallow Deer Welfare and Road Mortality in Southern England

Fallow deer, the UK second most abundant deer species, suffer high road mortality particularly during the October-November rut when males move widely in search of females, and during post-rut dispersal of yearlings in spring.

Key Facts

Fallow deer are non-native but have been present in Britain since the 11th century
There are an estimated 150,000 fallow deer in England and Wales
Road traffic accidents involving deer cause approximately 74,000 incidents annually in the UK
The October-November rut is the highest-risk period for deer-vehicle collisions
A2, A1, and M25 corridors through Kent and Essex have very high deer collision rates

Welfare Considerations

Deer struck by vehicles suffer severe traumatic injuries. Those that run off injured often die slowly over hours or days from blood loss, broken limbs, or internal trauma. Some injured deer remain on or near roads, suffering while waiting for humane despatch. Drivers also face risk, and the fear response of injured deer makes approach and capture for treatment extremely stressful for the animal.

What You Can Do

Slow down on roads marked with deer warning signs, especially at dawn and dusk
Contact Deer Vehicle Collision project to report collision incidents
Support British Deer Society trained deer welfare officers
Advocate for deer fencing and underpasses at high-collision road sections
Never approach an injured deer alone; contact police or BDWS immediately