Drivers warned as deer rutting season begins

Motorists in Killarney are being urged to exercise extreme caution as the annual deer rutting season gets underway, causing animals to stray far beyond their usual habitats inside Killarney National Park.

The autumn mating season sees deer becoming highly active and unpredictable, leading to increased sightings and collisions on local roads outside traditional park boundaries.
Two separate incidents highlighted the growing hazard on local routes this week. A reader contacted the Killarney Advertiser to warn drivers after spotting a deer roaming near Tiernaboul towards the school on Sunday afternoon around 7.30pm.
Later that same night, in the early hours of Monday morning, a local driver collided with a deer near Kerry Airport around 1am while returning home from an event.
Despite attempting evasive action, the motorist struck the animal, which died at the scene and temporarily blocked the road before local Gardaí were alerted to clear the obstruction.
The driver sustained substantial vehicle damage, requiring repairs to the bumper, headlamp, and internal components, leaving her facing significant garage costs and time off the road.
Gardaí and road safety advocates advise motorists travelLing during early morning and late evening and remain vigilant along tree-lined routes.

Kerry Airport chief executive Adrian Neilan addressed local business leaders at the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce luncheon at the Killarney Heights Hotel.

Mr Neilan outlined the airport’s strategy, focusing on regional connectivity, customer experience, safety, and financial strength.

He noted that regional road, rail, and air links remain vital for residents, local businesses, and the tourism sector.

Addressing route development, Mr Neilan explained that airlines look closely at load factor alongside overall passenger volume.

In July, select Kerry routes achieved load factors of up to 99 per cent.

The airport currently has six confirmed meetings scheduled with prospective carriers to discuss further expansion.

Kerry Airport recorded its busiest year on record in 2025, handling 440,000 passengers.

Mr Neilan highlighted the importance of domestic and European connectivity for business, education, healthcare, and family travel, noting that attracting new services requires a collective effort between local hoteliers, transport operators, and regional businesses.

The luncheon also featured an address by Cllr Niall Kelleher, chairperson of Christmas in Killarney, who introduced the launch and updated branding for this year’s festival, urging the local community and trade sector to rally behind the event.
Photos: Eamonn Keogh