MORE resources are needed to protect wildlife and drivers from collisions, a campaign group has said.

The Deer Initiative said protecting wildlife near highways and trunk roads is becoming ‘increasingly problematic’, adding: “Lack of resources to tackle the problem is a recurring theme for many who try to prevent wildlife vehicle collisions.”

The comments came at a public policy meeting, part of a campaign to promote deer and wildlife awareness on the roads.

Last year, the Dorset Echo revealed police were called to 21 incidents of deer on the roads in just two months – with a particular area of concern being the A35 Puddletown bypass.

According to the Deer Initiative, it’s estimated there could be between 40,000 and 74,000 deer-related road traffic collisions across the UK this year, resulting in 400 to 700 injuries to people and 20 deaths. The combined economic impact of injury accidents and car damage is likely to exceed £50 million per annum.

The organisation is a partnership of statutory, voluntary and private sector groups, and aims to ensure a sustainable wild deer population.

A spokesman said: “In light of recent political developments, this symposium provided a much needed opportunity to highlight solutions for protecting wildlife by discussing enhanced fencing, clearer signage and inclusion of animal crossings to be incorporated at the planning stages of new road projects.

“The event also offered an opportunity to further build on partnerships between local highway authorities and wildlife conservation trusts in order to establish sufficient research surrounding the wildlife vehicle collisions.

“The recurring theme throughout the day was a need for a more collaborative approach to data sharing, an approach we whole heartedly support.”

Highways England has the following advice on dealing with deer on the roads:

n When you see deer warning signs or are travelling through a heavily wooded or forested stretch of road, check your speed and stay alert.

n If your headlights are on, use full-beams when you can; but dip them if you see deer, as they may ‘freeze’.

n More deer may follow the first one you see.

n Be prepared to stop. Try not to suddenly swerve to avoid a deer. Hitting oncoming traffic or another obstacle could be even worse.

n If you have to stop, use your hazard warning lights.

n Do not approach an injured deer – it could be dangerous.

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