Deciphering interactions between white-tailed deer and approaching vehicles

摘要: Abstract Deer-vehicle collisions are a major transportation hazard, but factors affecting deer escape decision-making in response to vehicle approach remain poorly characterized. We made opportunistic observations of during daylight hours on restricted-access facility Ohio, USA (vehicle speeds were ≤64 km/h). hypothesized that animal proximity the road, group size, approach, and ambient conditions would affect perceived risk by white-tailed (Odocoileus virginianus) as measured flight-initiation distance (FID). constructed priori models for FID, well road-crossing behavior. Deer responses variable did not demonstrate spatial or temporal margins safety. Road-crossing behavior was slightly positively influenced size winter. showed greater FIDs likelihood crossing when approached road; directionality likely increased risk. These findings consistent with antipredator theory relative predator direction.