Look out for deer on trails

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Greene County News

XENIA — Cyclists, walkers, equestrians and all users of the 62 miles of paved trails managed by Greene County Parks & Trails (GCP&T) are urged to watch for wildlife crossing the trails during this autumn season.

Wildlife, especially deer, can be more aggressive during this season as mates are sought for the coming breeding season.

To prevent wildlife mishaps, users of the paved trails network are reminded to:

– Be especially cautious from 4 to 9 p.m., when deer are most active.

– Don’t count on deer whistles or deer fences to deter deer from crossing roads.

– Watch for the reflection of deer eyes and for deer silhouettes on the shoulder of the road. If anything looks slightly suspicious, slow down. If you see one deer, be cautious as more are likely to follow.

– Slow down in areas known to have a large deer population — such as areas where roads divide agricultural fields from woodlands; and whenever in wooded areas between dusk and dawn.

– Deer do unpredictable things — they stop in the middle of the trail when crossing; cross and quickly re-cross back; and move toward an approaching cyclist.

Other wildlife, such as raccoons, opossums, squirrels, chipmunks, etc., can also be found crossing the trails. Domestic animals, such as cats or dogs, can also provide a risk when suddenly darting across a paved trail.

If farm animals, such as horses, sheep or cattle, are found on the trail, call Greene County Central Dispatch at 937-376-5111 to dispatch a GCP&T Ranger to the site.

For more information about GCP&T or the paved trails network, call the park agency headquarters at 937-562-6400, visit www.gcparkstrails.com or email [email protected].

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Story courtesy of Greene County Parks & Trails.

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