OPP to drivers: watch out for animals on the road

Officials with the OPP say more wild animals, such as deer, moose and bears, are being reported on or near area roadways.

Since the beginning of May, nearly 40 motor vehicle collisions involving those animals have been reported to the Thunder Bay detachment OPP.

Const. Diana Cole says motorists need to slow down and be on the lookout for any four-legged neighbours crossing area highways.

Cole added that deer in particular can be unpredictable as the animals walking in ditches or on the side of the road may dart out in front of vehicles without warning. Cole said she cautions motorists to be particularly mindful around animal crossing signs.

Police have responded to animal collisions on roads across the region, many of which have resulted in the animal being injured or killed and often causing extensive damage to vehicles.