Second Deer Hit and Killed by Vehicle in Lafayette

(Lafayette, Louisiana) - Another deer has been hit and killed in less than a week in Lafayette.

Last week, we reported here that a deer was struck and killed near Ambassador Caffery and Robley Dr. in the middle of the city, and another large deer has been hit and killed in the city.

A photo shared by Steve Mabry in a Facebook group shows the large deer dead on the side of the road, and according to Mabry, the deer was killed on Ridge Road near Colorado Road after being struck by a passing vehicle.

As we have often stated in stories like this one, wild animals appear to be on the move more frequently, and now we are seeing an increasing number of them in heavily populated areas of the state.

Some speculate that with recent developments, wild animals like deer and coyotes are being forced out of their natural habitats, which is why we're seeing more of them in towns and cities.

Others suggest that the food sources for wild animals are also on the move, and that too could be a contributing factor for wild animals in heavily populated areas.

Whatever the case may be, it is unusual to see and hear about deer being hit in Lafayette. We certainly encourage you to be on the lookout not just for deer around Lafayette, but also for other potentially dangerous wild animals.

As a reminder, coyotes have frequently been spotted near homes in urban areas. Recently, I saw a large coyote near Acadiana High School in Lafayette Parish, which serves as a constant reminder to always watch small children and pets when they are outdoors.

Here's the latest deer struck and killed in Lafayette. I drove by this intersection shortly after the photo was shared on the Facebook group, and I did not see the deer on the side of the road. Either someone picked it up or Wildlife & Fisheries arrived to remove the large animal from the side of the road.

If you see wild animals in heavily populated areas, please call Wildlife & Fisheries at (337) 262-2080.