French police in the Burgundy region have warned motorists to be cautious of deer that may become intoxicated after eating fermented fruit [1, 2].
This seasonal phenomenon increases the risk of road accidents because intoxicated animals exhibit unpredictable movements that can surprise drivers. The warning aims to prevent collisions in rural areas where wildlife frequently crosses highways [1, 3].
Local police near Mâcon shared a video to illustrate the danger, showing a deer moving erratically in circles [1, 2]. The authorities said the situation is a result of animals consuming what is colloquially termed a "forest aperitif" [4].
According to a French police spokesperson, some wild animals consume buds, fermented fruits, or decaying plants during the spring [1, 4]. These items can lead to intoxication and cause the animals to behave in ways that are unpredictable [1, 4].
Police said that drunk animals can be dangerous to drivers if they are not vigilant [1]. The agency said that the combination of spring foraging and the presence of fermented vegetation creates a specific hazard for those traveling through the Burgundy countryside [1, 2].
Drivers are encouraged to maintain lower speeds and remain alert for animals that may not react to vehicles in a typical manner. The police department used the viral footage of the circling deer to highlight how disorientation affects the animals' ability to perceive danger [1, 3].
“"In spring, some wild animals consume buds, fermented fruits, or decaying plants and can have totally unpredictable behavior."”
This alert highlights the intersection of seasonal biological cycles and public safety. When wild animals ingest fermented sugars from decaying plant matter, the resulting ethanol can impair their motor skills and survival instincts, turning a standard wildlife crossing into a high-risk traffic event for rural motorists.
