HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mating season and the quest for more secure habitat have deer on the move this time of year, increasing the chances of vehicle collisions.

In fact, the Reno County Sheriff’s Office has worked eight deer-related accidents this week alone. Luckily, there were no injuries involved.

Typically, the greatest number of deer-vehicle crashes are in mid-November when the rut, or mating season, peaks. In addition to the rut, deer are also on the move in mid-fall seeking new food sources and shelter as crops are harvested and leaves fall from trees and shrubs, leaving them less secure than in their summer habitats.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, 17 percent of the nearly 59,000 accidents reported last were deer-related.

Be aware that deer are on move this time of year.