Randy stags are posing a risk for motorists as one local authority warns drivers to be vigilant.
At this time of year male deer are unpredictable and can travel several miles a day in search of a mate, according to Mayo County Council.
The local authority’s road safety officer Noel Gibbons warned that females fleeing their advances are liable to cross the road in front of a car.
The most common times for the male deer to roam are at dawn and dusk, which coincides with the morning and evening rush-hours.
And rutting season, where male deer clash horns over mating rights with females, is about to begin.
Mr Gibbons said: “With fewer cars on the roads over the last few months because of Covid19, we’ve seen all sorts of wildlife being bolder, and deer are no exception.
“We would urge motorists to be cautious and drive a little slower at this time of the year, especially on rural and semi-rural roads.”
The average claim payout for a deer strike is €1,600, with up to 500 collisions in Ireland each year.
Mr Gibbons warned: “The reason it’s an issue this time of year is because as the rutting season begins the males chase the females across countryside areas.
“These females are trying to get away from the males and will run in female-only groups.
“The problem is when they encounter a road they will all go at once and pay little attention to the fact they are crossing a road because they are distracted and in flight.
“This is often fatal for the animal, or they can be badly injured and suffer terribly.
“The main concern though is the risk to human life from striking an animal this size.
“If you are entering a wooded area at night slow down and be prepared.
