It seems that the number of deer killed by motorists on Georgia byways is increasing every year.  Consequently, those of us that have yards bordering these thoroughfares have an ever-increasing chance that one of these unfortunate animals struck by a motorist will end up on our front lawn.  If this happens to you, do you now is responsible for its removal?

       After living along a highway for a half century my wife and I recently had to deal with this problem.  We found a mature doe white-tailed deer stretched across our driveway.  The first thing we had to do was find out if a government agency would remove the unfortunate animal.  After searching for information online and making several phone calls we finally had an answer. 

       If your property borders a state highway, the Georgia Department of Transportation will remove the animal if it is on its right of way.  This is the 40 feet of land that runs parallel to the centerline of the highway.  The removal of a deer located beyond the right of way is the responsibility of the landowner.  Therefore, if the deer is on the state right of way, you need to call the GDOT office in your county for assistance.  These offices are listed on the GDOT website.

       If your property borders a secondary road, you need to check with the municipal or county road department responsible for the maintenance of the roadway.  Based on our limited research concerning such roads, we found that the rules governing the removal of dead deer found along such highways vary from county to county.

       I hope you never have to face this unpleasant task.  However, if you do, perhaps this information will make the job a little easier.

       When most Georgia homeowners fuss about the problems caused by wild animals making a nuisance around their home they are typically referring to the likes of white-tailed deer, opossums, raccoons, and eastern chipmunks.  However, some of us also have to contend with an animal that takes being a nuisance to a new level.  The animal I am talking about is the black bear.     

       Some 4,100 black bears live in the Peach State.  Most of these large animals never have a conflict with humans.  However, as the state’s black bear population grows, and humans continue to convert bear habitat into residential areas, it is highly likely that human-bear encounters will increase.  However, when a bear destroys a valuable bird feeder, explores a front porch, or scatters trash across a yard people often become frightened and are left wondering what can be done to ensure such events will cease.

       According to Adam Hammond, Georgia’s state bear biologist, “Avoiding problems with bears is usually simple, though it may not always be convenient.” 

                          photo credit: GA DNR Wildlife Resources Division

       In an effort to assist homeowners deal with bear problems, the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division and 14 other state wildlife agencies have developed an educational program named BearWise.  Below you will find six BearWise recommendations that will help you safely deal with bears in your yard.

1. Never feed or approach a bear.
2. Secure food, garbage, and recycling. Since bears are attracted to food odors, don’t store garbage or other food-related items outside.
3. Remove bird feeders when bears are active in your area.
4. Never leave pet food outdoors.
5. Thoroughly clean outdoor grills after they have been used. In addition, store grills insecure locations.
6. If you happen to see a bear close by, notify your neighbors.  If you and your neighbors take preventative measures, bears will not be able to find food and will look elsewhere for a free meal.

              One the other hand, if you and your neighbors do not take preventative measures to discourage bears, chances are bear problems will become more frequent.  This, in turn, can lead to increased property damage and potentially dangerous encounters between humans, pets, and bears.

              More detailed information can be obtained by visiting www.bearwise.org