Boise, ID – As winter conditions intensify across Idaho and nights grow longer, drivers near Boise are being warned about a seasonal danger that spikes sharply this time of year: wildlife collisions after dark.
According to Idaho Fish and Game and transportation officials, winter forces animals to significantly alter their movement patterns, pushing them closer to roads and highways—often during evening and early morning hours when visibility is lowest. Shorter daylight hours mean more drivers are traveling in darkness just as wildlife activity increases.
Officials say mule deer, white-tailed deer, elk, coyotes, and other wildlife are driven toward roadways as food becomes scarce at higher elevations and snowpack limits movement. In southwestern Idaho, animals frequently migrate from foothills and mountain terrain into valley areas near Boise, placing them directly in vehicle travel paths—often along I-84, Highway 55, and rural commuter routes.
Wildlife biologists note that winter intensifies migration and feeding pressure, causing animals to move earlier in the evening and later in the morning. This overlap with commute times significantly increases the likelihood of crashes. Deer collisions are common statewide, while elk collisions—though less frequent—pose serious dangers due to the animals’ size and limited nighttime visibility.
The Idaho Transportation Department 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 rollovers or secondary crashes—particularly on icy or rural highways.
Drivers are also encouraged to watch roadsides carefully near foothills, open rangeland, river corridors, and less-developed stretches outside the Boise metro. Wildlife often travels in groups, meaning if one animal crosses the road, others may follow moments later.
As winter continues and daylight remains limited, officials say wildlife-related crashes will remain a serious risk across Idaho. Drivers are urged to use extra caution during evening and early morning travel, when animal movement is at its peak.
