True Or False: Deer Whistles Will Keep Your Vehicle Safe

If you’ve ever driven the roads of Northern Illinois during deer mating season (which is going on right now), you know the feeling.

You’re cruising along, scanning the ditches and tree lines, wondering when a 200-pound whitetail might decide to make a surprise appearance in front of your vehicle.

Some drivers swear by deer whistles, those small devices attached to the front of cars and trucks that supposedly emit high-frequency sounds to warn deer of approaching traffic. Others aren’t convinced. So, who's right?

Unfortunately for deer-whistle believers, the scientific evidence isn't particularly encouraging.

Deer crosses road near pedestrian crossing sign

Millions And Millions Of Deer Whistles Have Been Sold And Used Over The Years

Researchers at the University of Georgia took things a step further, testing how 319 deer responded to various sounds produced by specialized equipment. Their findings were that the sounds generally failed to change deer behavior in ways that would prevent vehicle collisions. In one test, deer were actually more likely to enter the roadway in response to a particular sound.

The other problem is that some commercially available whistles reportedly don't produce the ultrasonic sounds their manufacturers claim they do. Even when deer can hear a sound, that doesn't mean they'll understand it as a warning or react by moving safely away from traffic.

So, what about all those drivers who insist their whistles work? Their experiences may be genuine. But without controlled comparisons, it's impossible to know whether the whistles deserve the credit or whether those drivers simply haven't encountered a deer in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Two young deer crossing a paved road with yellow lines

Here's The Bottom Line On These Gadgets

Don't count on a $10 whistle to protect your vehicle.

Instead, slow down in deer-prone areas, particularly around dawn and dusk. Watch the shoulders, use your high beams when appropriate, and remember that deer often travel in groups. If one crosses the road, others may be following.

With deer activity increasing to dangerous levels at this time of year, a little extra caution is worth far more than a little plastic gadget.