FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - A lingering drought in the South, is
forcing thirsty deer, bears, even alligators to travel in search of
water, creating traffic hazards for motorists.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet spokesman Doug Hogan says that
when animals have to search for water, the chances of them crossing
highways goes up, creating a highway safety issue.
That's especially true with large animals like elk, deer and
black bear in the Appalachian region. There, small mountain streams
were among the first to dry up and force animals to travel to
larger creeks and rivers.
Hogan says motorists may face the greatest danger in mountainous
eastern Kentucky, where many roads are parallel to streams in the
Dozens of water districts in the Southeast are urging voluntary
conservation, and some have imposed bans on watering lawns and car
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)