New Mexico Drought Blamed for More Animal Car Accidents

State officials say New Mexico’s extreme drought is causing a higher number of car accidents involving animals looking for water.

KRQE-TV reports that New Mexico Department of Game and Fish officers believe the drought is forcing wildfire to take desperate measures by crossing roads for food and water resulting in more accidents.

In Albuquerque’s East Mountains, for example, motorists have struck a bear and two deer in just two days.

Game and Fish officials say all types of animals are involved in accidents, from elk and deer to javelina and antelope.

New Mexico is in its third year of extreme drought, and recent thunderstorms have brought little relief.