The warning initially sounds like a curious summer news story. But in the French region of Saône-et-Loire, the police and authorities are taking the matter very seriously. The Gendarmerie is currently asking drivers to exercise extreme caution — due to supposedly “drunk” deer wandering disoriented along roads and forest edges.
In reality, behind the unusual warning is a completely natural phenomenon. In forests, traditional orchards, and rural areas, there are currently many fruits falling to the ground. Apples, pears, or plums begin to ferment after a few days, especially with mild temperatures and damp weather. Alcohol forms — not in large quantities, but apparently enough to destabilize the wild animals.
Anyone who has passed through an old orchard in autumn knows that sweet and heavy smell of fermented fruit. For deer, however, it seems to be quite intoxicating.
Several drivers have reported in recent days animals suddenly running across the roadway, standing motionless at the roadside, or changing direction uncontrollably. The local Gendarmerie describes the behavior as unpredictable. Especially in the early morning or at dusk, this considerably increases the risk of serious wildlife accidents.
And the figures behind this are not to be taken lightly. Every year, several thousand collisions between vehicles and wild animals occur in France. Deer are especially involved. They react quickly, often jump onto the road unexpectedly, and are difficult to anticipate. If an animal is also disoriented due to having ingested fermented fruits, the risk increases significantly.
For this reason, authorities recommend reducing speed in wooded areas and taking seriously the warning signs for animal crossings. High beams can help detect animals in advance — as long as oncoming traffic allows. At the same time, officials warn that sudden appearance of wildlife should not be met with abrupt maneuvers. A hasty steering maneuver is usually more dangerous than the collision itself.
Behind this curious story, however, there is also a wider context. Experts have observed for years that encounters between wild animals and human infrastructure are increasing. Forests increasingly border directly on residential areas or fast roads. At the same time, milder temperatures and longer vegetation periods are changing the behavior of many species. Nature is approaching humans — sometimes, quite literally, up to the car’s hood.
On social media, the Gendarmerie’s warning spread rapidly. Comments about “wild parties” of the Burgundy deer or “animal wine tastings” were not lacking. Apparently, a bit of small-town tavern humor is part of the matter.
But the officers make it clear: a disoriented wild animal is no joke. For drivers as well as for the animals themselves. The unusual warning is mainly intended to prevent one thing: that from a picturesque story suddenly arises a serious accident.
By C. Hatty