Watch out for wildlife on Quebec roads this spring, province warns

A moose near Sheenboro, Quebec on Sunday, April 6, 2025. (Kelly McCann/CTV Viewer)

Quebec’s Ministry of Transport is urging drivers to stay alert this spring as large animals begin to increasingly roam near roadways.

As temperatures warm up and snow melts, species like white-tailed deer and moose will begin to move around more in search of food and new habitats.

It’s also the time of year when young deer from the previous season leave their family groups to establish their own territory, making wildlife encounters on the road more likely.

When and how to stay safe

Transport officials recommend slowing down and staying especially cautious at dawn and dusk, when the risk of hitting an animal is highest. Drivers who spot a deer or moose near the road should reduce their speed immediately if they are able. These animals are nervous and unpredictable and can dart onto the pavement without warning, the transport ministry warns.

If a collision appears unavoidable, the ministry says to brake gradually rather than swerving sharply, because a sudden manoeuvre could cause a far more serious accident. Drivers should also tap their brakes repeatedly to warn vehicles behind them that there’s wildlife ahead.

Safety measures in place

The ministry has a number of safety measures in place across the provincial road network to reduce wildlife collisions. They include warning signs and flashing panels in high-risk areas and anti-deer fencing to keep animals off the road and guide them toward safe crossing points. There are also wildlife underpasses, which serve as tunnels beneath the road to allow animals to cross safely. Brush clearing along roadsides is also carried out to improve driver visibility, the ministry said.

Despite these measures, the ministry warned that the risk remains real and drivers must remain vigilant.

Drivers should report large animals

Drivers who spot large animals near a road are encouraged to report it by calling 511 and selecting option 2. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and helps ministry experts identify problem areas and respond quickly.