Phoenix, AZ – As winter conditions settle in across Arizona and nights grow cooler and longer, drivers near Phoenix are being warned about a seasonal danger that spikes sharply this time of year: wildlife collisions after dark.
According to Arizona wildlife officials and transportation agencies, winter temperatures shift animal behavior, pushing wildlife to become more active during evening and early morning hours. Shorter daylight hours mean more drivers are on the road in darkness just as desert wildlife activity increases.
Officials say mule deer, javelina, coyotes, foxes, and other wildlife are drawn toward roadways as cooler temperatures make movement easier and food sources shift. In central Arizona, animals frequently travel along desert washes, foothills, open preserves, and suburban edges surrounding Phoenix, placing them directly in vehicle travel paths—often along Loop 101, Loop 202, I-17, and highways leading toward mountain and desert recreation areas.
Wildlife biologists note that winter brings increased nighttime movement, as animals avoid daytime heat and take advantage of quieter roads. This behavior overlaps with commute times and late-night travel, significantly increasing the likelihood of crashes. Deer collisions are a growing concern statewide, while javelina collisions can be especially dangerous due to the animals’ low visibility and tendency to travel in groups.
The Arizona Department of Transportation urges drivers to slow down in areas marked with wildlife crossing signs and remain especially alert between sunset and sunrise. High beams should be used when possible, but officials caution drivers not to swerve suddenly to avoid animals, as that can lead to loss of control or multi-vehicle crashes on high-speed roadways.
Drivers are also encouraged to scan roadsides carefully near desert preserves, open land, washes, and less-developed stretches outside the Phoenix metro. Wildlife often travels in groups, meaning if one animal crosses the road, others may follow moments later.
As winter continues and nighttime travel increases, officials say wildlife-related crashes will remain a serious risk across Arizona. Drivers are urged to use extra caution during evening and early morning travel, when animal movement is at its peak.
