Billings, MT – As winter conditions intensify across Montana and nights grow longer, drivers near Billings are being warned about a seasonal danger that spikes sharply this time of year: wildlife collisions after dark.
According to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and transportation officials, winter forces animals to significantly alter their movement patterns, bringing them closer to roads and highways—often during evening and early morning hours when visibility is at its lowest. Shorter daylight hours mean more drivers are traveling in darkness just as wildlife activity increases.
Officials say white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, coyotes, and other wildlife are pushed toward roadways as food becomes scarce and deep snow limits movement. In south-central Montana, animals frequently travel along river valleys, open rangeland, forest edges, and plowed road corridors near Billings, placing them directly in vehicle travel paths—often along I-90, I-94, and rural highways.
Wildlife biologists note that harsh winter conditions intensify 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 and moose collisions—though less frequent—are especially dangerous due to the animals’ size and height.
The Montana 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 rollovers or secondary crashes—particularly on icy or snow-covered roads.
Drivers are also encouraged to watch roadsides carefully near open rangeland, wooded areas, river corridors, and less-developed stretches outside the Billings 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 Montana. Drivers are urged to use extra caution during evening and early morning travel, when animal movement is at its peak.
