Burlington, VT – As winter conditions intensify across Vermont and nights grow longer, drivers near Burlington are being warned about a seasonal danger that spikes sharply this time of year: wildlife collisions after dark.
According to Vermont wildlife officials and transportation agencies, winter forces animals to alter their movement patterns in ways that bring them closer to roads and highways—often during evening and early morning hours when visibility is limited. Shorter daylight hours mean more drivers are on the road in darkness just as wildlife activity increases.
Officials say deer, moose, coyotes, and other wildlife are pushed toward roadways as food becomes scarce and snow or frozen ground restricts movement. In northwestern Vermont, animals frequently follow plowed roads, roadside vegetation, and forest edges near Burlington, placing them directly in vehicle travel paths.
Wildlife biologists note that winter changes feeding behavior, causing many animals to move earlier in the evening and later in the morning. This overlaps with commute times, increasing the risk of crashes. Deer collisions are common across Vermont, while moose collisions—though less frequent—pose a serious threat due to the animal’s size and height, especially at night.
The Vermont Agency 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 against swerving suddenly to avoid animals, as that can lead to rollovers or collisions with other vehicles.
Drivers are also advised to watch roadsides carefully near wooded areas, open fields, and less-developed stretches around Burlington. Wildlife often travels in groups, meaning if one animal crosses the road, others may follow seconds later.
As winter continues and daylight remains limited, officials say wildlife-related crashes will remain a serious risk across Vermont. Drivers are urged to use extra caution during evening and early morning travel, when animal movement is at its peak.
