Stags locked in battle in Killarney National Park.
The Irish Deer Commission is calling on motorists to be vigilant at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active, particularly in high risk areas such as woodlands and mountains.
From late September until early November is when the breeding season peaks and when the clash of antlers will be heard as males show off their virility to potential mates.
While the rut season is an amazing experience to witness, it is also a time when there is an increased incident of road traffic accidents involving deer as male deer go in search of females and younger males are ousted forcing extra numbers of deer to cross public roads and motorways.
Drivers are asked to reduce speed where they see a warning sign and stay alert. They should also prepare to stop and never swerve as you could hit another obstacle or oncoming vehicle.
The advice is when you do see a deer to dip your headlights as the full beam may cause the deer to freeze. If a deer has crossed in front of your vehicle, be aware that others may follow. Do not approach an injured deer.
If you are involved in a road traffic accident involving a deer or come across a deer that has been involved in a road traffic accident, immediately contact the local gardaí.
The Irish Deer Commission operate a humane deer dispatch scheme with 135 trained volunteers assisting agencies and charities who deal with an increasing number of deer vehicle collisions nationally.