Wildlife crossing alert: ‘Drunk’ deer in France threaten drivers

Drivers in eastern France faced an unexpected threat, leaving even the most modern ADAS systems ineffective. Law enforcement authorities in Saône-et-Loire have raised the alarm and warned of «intoxicated» deer prone to running onto the road.

In early May, authorities posted videos of deer behaving strangely. In this state, deer can run onto the road and literally freeze. They are not afraid of emergency lights or signals, ignoring engine sounds and «falling asleep,» prompting patrol officers to carry the antlered troublemakers to the roadside.

«Ladies and gentlemen… not all road users are sober,» the authorities wrote ironically.

Why deer get «drunk»

Biologists say the reason behind such behavior is the seasonal fermentation of natural food sources. Nature itself «prepares» cocktails for the animals, leaving them with no choice.

• Fermented dessert: In the fall and during thaws, deer find apples, pears and berries that have started to ferment. Along with sugar, ethanol enters their bodies.
• Rapeseed hangover: In winter and early spring, deer switch to winter rapeseed, which rots under the snow and releases alcohol.

The effects are intense — animals may temporarily lose their sight, freeze up or dart erratically across the road. While seasonal for deer, this phenomenon poses a serious threat to drivers, and police warnings become especially relevant in May.

Recommendations

In the event of an encounter, police and zoologists advise against honking, as it may trigger aggression, panic or even a heart attack. Drivers are advised to slow down and carefully drive around the animal.

Separately, a video went viral of a wild boar charging onto a busy road and slamming into a man crossing the street in Turkey.