France: French police warn drivers of 'drunk' deer on rural roads.

RESTRICTION: USERS MUST CREDIT “GENDARMERIE DE SAONE-ET-LOIRE” HANDOUT —EDITORIAL USE ONLY— SHOTLIST: SAONE-ET-LOIRE, FRANCE (MAY 5, 2026) (GENDARMERIE DE SAONE-ET-LOIRE - RESTRICTED) 1. VARIOUS OF DEER STUMBLING, TURNING IN CIRCLES AND FALLING BESIDE ROAD IN WOODED AREASAONE-ET-LOIRE, FRANCE - MAY 5 - RESTRICTION: USERS MUST CREDIT “GENDARMERIE DE SAONE-ET-LOIRE” HANDOUT —EDITORIAL USE ONLY—: French gendarmerie warned motorists Tuesday, May 12, to exercise caution in wooded and rural areas after deer displaying erratic behavior linked to the consumption of fermented fruit were spotted crossing roads in eastern France. Footage released by the Gendarmerie of Saone-et-Loire showed an animal moving unsteadily beside traffic before losing its balance and falling to the ground. Authorities said some wild animals consume fermented fruit, buds and decomposing vegetation during the spring, which can alter their behavior and coordination. The gendarmerie warned that affected animals may suddenly enter roads, stop unpredictably or move in disoriented patterns. These behaviors increase the risk of collisions, particularly at night and on secondary roads. Police urged drivers to slow down in wooded areas, anticipate unexpected crossings and avoid sudden steering maneuvers when encountering wildlife. “Not all road users are sober,” the police force said in a public message accompanying the footage.