I often commute to work on my bicycle and, to avoid some busy streets, I usually take some dirt and gravel trails through the local Forest Preserve. Lately, I have been seeing a lot of
deer - after all, it is that time of year - but I am also a little concerned because these deer are so tame. Often they wait until the last minute to move off the trail when they see me approaching on my bike. No doubt they see a lot of bikers.
What concerns me, though, is the upcoming rut next month. Bucks can be very aggressive and an old gal on a bicycle would be no match for a charging buck. Believe me, I now carry a
monocular or a
compact binocular at all times when riding the woods. I scan ahead when I can and talk loudly when I see deer to let them know I am coming. If the deer stands its ground, especially if it is a buck in November, I will be extra cautious. I definitely yield the right of way to wildlife.