Police in Saône-et-Loire, France, have issued a road-safety warning to drivers regarding deer behaving erratically after consuming fermented fruit [1].
The warning comes as unpredictable animal behavior on public roads increases the risk of vehicle collisions and unexpected hazards for motorists in the Burgundy region.
Authorities released the alert on May 14, 2026 [2]. The warning followed the circulation of a video showing a deer running in circles, jumping, and falling [1]. Police said the animals appear intoxicated due to the consumption of fermented fruit [1], [3].
The affected area is located in the Saône-et-Loire department near Mâcon [4], [5]. Local police said the intoxication causes the deer to lose coordination, making their movements unpredictable to drivers traveling through the region [3], [6].
Wildlife experts note that when fruit ferments on the ground, it produces alcohol that animals may ingest. This process can lead to a loss of motor control, and a lack of fear toward humans or vehicles [6]. The police said drivers should remain vigilant and reduce speeds in areas where wildlife is common to avoid accidents.
While the video of the circling deer has gained global attention, the primary concern for local law enforcement remains the safety of the roads [7]. Police said the situation is a direct result of the available fermented food sources in the local environment [1], [3].
“Deer are behaving erratically after consuming fermented fruit.”
This incident highlights how seasonal environmental changes, such as the fermentation of fallen fruit, can create temporary but significant public safety hazards. By alerting the public through viral media and official warnings, authorities aim to mitigate the risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions caused by chemically altered animal behavior.
