Collisions Between Cars, Deer Increasing in Delaware

The number of collisions between deer and vehicles in Delaware is growing as state officials work to reduce the deer population.

Citing statistics released recently by State Farm Insurance, The News Journal of Wilmington reports that Delaware drivers have a 1 in 167.8 chance of hitting a deer. That’s slightly more risk than the national average of 1 in 174.

State officials say the largest numbers of collisions occur in New Castle County, many on roads north of the Interstate 95 corridor. Wildlife biologist Joe Rogerson says that area has 140 deer for every square mile of suitable habitat.

November is the worst month for collisions because it’s mating season for deer.

State wildlife officials say Delaware’s deer population has stabilized but it’s still larger than they’d prefer.