(Lewis) The deer rut is in full swing, making it a good time for hunters, but not so much for motorists.
John Lorenzen, a fisheries biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, says bucks are on their feet throughout the day searching for does. This makes it easier for hunters, who can stay in their deer stands all day and have more opportunities to see deer.
Lorenzen says the peak of the rut typically occurs sometime between November 5 and November 15.
As mentioned, this is also a dangerous time for motorists. The deer tend to cross roads more frequently, appear in open areas or even suburban neighborhoods, and freeze when hit by headlights, blocking the road.
To avoid collision with deer, slow down in areas with deer habitat, especially between dawn and dusk. Watch the road edges as well as the lane, deer may approach from the shoulder. Use high beams when it is safe to spot a deer earlier, and do not swerve if a deer is in your path.
The national data show deer are the most commonly struck wildlife, with over 1.6 million animal-vehicle collision claims nationwide in the 2025-2026 reporting period. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports nearly 1,900 people died in animal crashes between 2013-2022.
In Iowa, and surrounding states, the rut period is among the highest risk times for deer vehicle collisions.
