Evaluation of the effectiveness of the Flashing Light Animal Sensing Host (FLASH) in decreasing mule Deer Mortality.

Authors(s): S. Anderson and K. Gordon

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Publication Date: 0000-00-00

Type: Annual

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Abstract: S. Highway 30 between Kemmerer and Cokeville, WY is subject to numerous deer/vehicle collisions each fall and spring as mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) migrate between their winter and summer ranges. The Wyoming Department of Transportation in cooperation with Wyoming Game and Fish and the Wyoming Cooperative Research Unit is developing and testing an infrared sensing device in Nugget Canyon on US30 that detects deer as they cross the highway and activates flashing signs which warn motorists of deer presence in the crossing. Microwave radar sensors that measure vehicle speed and classification (i.e. 2-axle car, 5-axle tractor-trailer) were used to evaluate motorist response to the flashing signs and to the presence of a stuffed deer placed in the crossing. On average, 2-axle vehicles decreased speed by approximately 14 mph in response to the stuffed deer, whereas 5-axle vehicles decreased speed by approximately 8 mph. The project will continue into the winter of 2000-2001, and data will be collected to determine if the system is effective in reducing mule deer mortality.

Keywords: mule deer , Odocoileus hemionus, Cervidae, animal, mammal, ungulate, deer, migration, mortality, human activity, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, infrared sensing, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Wyoming